Dylan RobertsonFix Auto has trained its 200th mental health first aider, three years after launching the programme.
Matthew Hewitt (pictured, left), a technician from Fix Auto Leeds North, became the 200th team member to complete the two-day training course at Fix Auto’s headquarters in Leicester.
Hewitt completed the course with 12 other colleagues, led by regional business manager, Carl Norton (pictured, right).
Hewitt said: “Taking part in this course has been a real eye-opener. It’s empowering to know I now have the skills to support a colleague or family member who might be struggling.
“Mental health awareness and support are more important than ever.”
The Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) course was launched in May 2022, as a free initiative intended to open conversations about mental health, in an industry where they are traditionally uncommon, by training at least two employees at each repair centre to be able to identify and respond to signs of mental health challenges.
The programme was initially offered to all of Fix Auto’s franchise partners, but it has since been offered to supplier partners too.
Ian Pugh, managing director of the Advantage Group of Companies, said: “This achievement is more than just a number, it reflects our unwavering dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive culture.
“Supporting mental health within our network is not only the right thing to do, it’s part of who we are.”
The programme follows the standard MHFA England course.
It came after Fix Auto was named as a finalist in the 2025 InsideOut Awards, in the Best DE&I for Mental Health Strategy category, alongside well-known companies such as Air Canada and Sky.
Pugh said: “Being shortlisted in the InsideOut Awards alongside such major global brands is a huge honour and a testament to the hard work and commitment of our people.
“It reinforces the fact that our people-first approach is making a meaningful impact—both within our network and across the industry.”
