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St John Ambulance is urging employers to recognise that the traditional concept of workplace first aid is dangerously outdated.
England’s leading first aid charity has declared 2025 the year of holistic workplace health, warning that organisations must proactively address outdated approaches to first aid in the workplace to best protect their employees.
The charity says first aid is no longer solely about treating physical illness or injury, or maintaining emergency first aid kits, but integrating both physical and mental health first aid to holistically keep workers safe.
Between 2023 and 2024, across the UK there were 33.7 million working days lost due to workplace injury or illness. Sick leave due to stress, depression or anxiety accounted for 16.4 million (about half) of those lost workdays.
“Workplaces that do not upgrade their approach to first aid to incorporate mental health first aid, and a focus on mental wellbeing, are in significant danger of failing to provide holistic care for their employees.”
“First aid – both physical and mental – is a core component of employee wellbeing – and in 2025, it demands a more sophisticated approach from businesses.”
“A holistic workplace first aid strategy draws on physical health interventions, mental health support, preventative training, and integrated wellness programmes.”
“By investing in holistic health approaches, organisations can reduce incidents and build more resilient, productive teams.”
“As we start the new year, we are calling on organisations to adapt in order to proactively contribute to improved employee resilience, reduced workplace incidents, and enhanced overall organisational health.”
Lisa Sharman, Head of Education and Commercial Training at St John Ambulance.
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