Northam Community Men's Shed Inc. has received $4,500 funding from the Department of Veteran's Affairs to conduct a Mental Health First Aid Kit training course, under the Men's Health Peer Education Program.
Continuing the series of men's health activities at the Old Fire Station in Wellington Street, the two-day activity will also be open to members from nearby Sheds, giving participants the skills and confidence to have supportive conversations with fellow 'shedmen' and help guide them to professional help if needed.
Northam Community Men's Shed president Rob Fraser said the training would benefit the wider community.
"Men's Sheds often have a go-to member that other men can confide in or seek help with their struggles, like a welfare officer," he said.
"By offering this training we want to up-skill those guys so that they can offer stronger, more directed support to their mates in need.
"In fact, these skills can be applied with anyone they come into contact with.
"Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based training course, which has been shown to increase knowledge, confidence and helping behaviours, and reduce stigma."
No date for the course has been set yet, but interested members from the various local sheds are encouraged to contact secretary Cliff Simpson on 0409 686 138 for details and to book a place.
Participation for 'shedmen' is free, with a small donation towards lunch and refreshments.
