JobsPlus - From Community Champion to Qualified First Aider

As summer approaches, the JobsPlus hub has seen more and more people scooch through the door. With the sun shining, our food pantries and ice cream vans have been more popular than ever before! But with summer fun come summer hazards - think burns on the barbecue, grazed knees, and a serious underestimation of the level of SPF required for a “sunny with partial shade” day (note to self: never trust the weather forecast).

As the summer season brings more time outdoors, it also increases the risk of common injuries such as cuts, scrapes, burns, and heat-related incidents.

Attending first aid training alongside like-minded individuals, all committed to the safety and wellbeing of our participants, was a real eye-opening experience. I can now proudly say that I am equipped with the skills needed to respond to individuals suffering a crisis, whether physical or mental.

First aid training has given me the confidence and practical skills to act quickly and safely when accidents happen, helping to prevent minor injuries from becoming more serious.

There were several key takeaways from the training, grounded in the core principles of first aid. These include staying calm, assessing the situation, cleaning and dressing cuts properly to reduce infection, and cooling burns immediately under running water to minimise damage. Knowing when to seek professional medical help is also essential.

The training has equipped me with the skills to assess and respond to each situation as it arises. Whether at the beach, during barbecues, or on family holidays, having basic first aid knowledge can make a crucial difference and help ensure everyone enjoys a safer summer.

When Summer Isn’t So Bright

Summer, however, isn’t always fun and games. Despite often being coined the “social season,” it can also be a time of loneliness for many.

While some may be sitting on their suitcases, eagerly checking whether their clearly oversized bag will meet strict airport limits, for others, summer can be an unwelcome reminder of inequality, where the gap between the “have” and “have nots” becomes more pronounced.

For people who have experienced long-term economic inactivity, summer can highlight missed holidays and lost opportunities. Sometimes, the signs aren’t obvious. It may be something as simple as withdrawing from friends and activities, or marking “busy” on the calendar to avoid events that are out of budget.

The Power of First Aid and Mental Health Awareness

The benefits of first aid training, both physical and mental health, go far beyond professional and personal development. They strengthen the community as a whole.

JobsPlus is a place-based support hub built on the belief that everyone has the right to work, support, and community. People attend JobsPlus for many different reasons. For some, it’s straightforward, they need help with their CV or job search. For others, the challenges are more complex: isolation, health conditions, financial worries, or feeling stuck in a job they don’t enjoy with no clear path forward.

What unites all our participants is the significant psychological impact that employment challenges can have on confidence, wellbeing, and overall mental health. One of the most valuable takeaways from the mental health training was understanding the practical steps we can take to support others.

Some are simple but powerful: talk to people, offer a listening ear, and practise active listening, approaching conversations without judgement. Engage in mindfulness and explore shared hobbies or interests. Challenge stigma or workplace “politics” when something doesn’t feel right.

However, one of the most impactful (and often overlooked) tips is learning.

It is widely recognised that learning and skills development can have a profound positive effect on wellbeing and mental health. Gaining new skills can create a sense of achievement, boosting confidence and resilience, particularly when returning to work.

Not only does this equip individuals with valuable employability skills, but it also helps establish routine, purpose, and a sense of belonging.

Real Impact in the Community

A fantastic example of this is fellow Community Champion Cynthia. When speaking about her experience with JobsPlus, she shared:

“JobsPlus helped with my massage and therapy business… [JobsPlus] helps you forget about the stress at home and just enjoy time with different people. Everyone is very nice… I’ve made friends here. It’s much better than staying at home all the time like before.”

This is just one of many examples that highlight the wide-ranging benefits of learning and community support.

Not only do these opportunities improve employability, but they also help people build meaningful connections and friendships.

A Tool for Life

Mental Health First Aid training has been an invaluable addition to my skill set. It has not only helped me become a better Community Champion, but it has also helped me grow as a person.

If you’re interested in learning new skills like first aid, or exploring vocational courses and opportunities, pop down to your local JobsPlus.

📍 Located on Kelvin Grove ☕ Come in for a cuppa and meet our friendly work coaches and community champions 📱 Or get in touch via social media, text, or call: 07728 288007