Meet New Mental Health First Aider Marc Valentine

19 March 2026

Marc joins our suite of existing Mental Health First Aiders within our regions, playing a crucial role in promoting a culture of wellbeing and good mental health within the East Midlands.

The Mental Health First Aiders initiative was introduced in 2023, as we acknowledged the immense pressure and isolation that Golf Club Managers face in their roles and this initiative demonstrates our commitment to supporting our members, not only professionally but also personally.

As part of this initiative, we have appointed Mental Health First Aiders in each region across England and Wales and initially they have attended a two-day Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course.

These individuals play a crucial role in ensuring the wellbeing and good mental health of our members and will be the main point of contact for anyone in need of mental health support.

Our MHFA’s learn to recognise warning signs of mental ill health and develop the skills and confidence to approach and support someone while keeping themselves safe.

They also learn how to empower someone to access the support they may need for recovery or successful management of symptoms. This could include self-help books or websites, accessing therapy services through their GP, their school or place of work, online self-referral, support groups, and more.

Furthermore, Mental Health First Aiders gain an understanding of how to support positive wellbeing and tackle stigma in the world around them.

Marc Valentine

Region: East Midlands

Role: General Manager, Nuneaton Golf Club

“I chose to take on the role of the Health and Wellbeing Officer for the GCMA East Midlands region as I am acutely aware of the importance of ensuring my colleagues and fellow Golf Club Managers understand the importance of good mental health and also have a suitable person to speak to if they find themselves struggling.

The role of Golf Club Manager can be extremely demanding and fraught with stressful situations which can negatively impact on a person’s mental health. The benefits of good mental health are vast and, with that in mind, I was keen to learn more about how I could gain greater knowledge about how to spot the warning signs of someone struggling as well as understanding the support that should be provided to them.

The Mental Health First Aider course run by MHFA is a great way to expand your knowledge and the course empowers you with the tools and confidence to be able to offer support and guidance. Following my training I sincerely hope that I can make a notable difference in my important role and I can properly support my colleagues.“

HOW TO ACCESS THE PROGRAMME

You can easily reach out to your regional MHFAider for support and they are happy to assist you via phone or email.

Contact information for your regional Mental Health First Aider will be made available via the GCMA website and GCMA Member App.

By Mark Shanley

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