At Terry Lifts, we know that trust starts from within. For over 75 years, we’ve built lifts to the highest standards of quality and safety. But we also build something just as important, a culture where people feel supported, valued and heard.
Because when you rely on us, you’re relying on our people. And we take that responsibility seriously.
Here, our Finance & Administration Manager Karen Latham shares what Mental Health First Aid means in the real world of work.
Mental Health First Aid and the Real World of Work
On paper, my role is Finance & Administration Manager. Spreadsheets, processes, policies. All true. But what you won’t see on a job description is this: I’m also a Mental Health First Aider, and that shapes how I show up every day.
The bit no one trains you for
Most roles prepare you for tasks, they don’t always prepare you for:
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The colleague who’s suddenly withdrawn
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The person who says they’re “fine” but clearly isn’t
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The manager carrying pressure from all sides
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The quiet signs that someone isn’t quite themselves
In an ever-evolving AI world, human skills still matter. Being a Mental Health First Aider isn’t about fixing people. It’s about noticing, listening, and responding with care. Sometimes the most supportive thing you can do is slow the conversation down and give someone space to breathe.
Being human is professional
Emotional well-being isn’t separate from performance. It affects decision-making, communication, confidence and resilience. People don’t leave their personal lives at the door (we all think, overthink and carry things with us). Mental Health First Aid provides a framework for safer, more supportive conversations, and the confidence to signpost professional help when it’s needed.
For a long time, professionalism was seen as being contained and emotionally neutral. I’ve learned it can also look like empathy, boundaries, calm presence and respectful honesty.
You can be human and capable.
Supportive and effective.
Practical and emotionally aware.
These aren’t weaknesses, they’re strengths. Because at the heart of every business, no matter the role people deserve care.
And at Terry Lifts, that’s part of being the one to trust, for our colleagues and our customers.
