Understanding the conditions for successful mental health training for managers

A randomised control trial to evaluate two training methods

A study commissioned by RSSB and led by IES has found face-to-face and e-learning training to be equally effective methods for training line managers in supporting staff with mental health problems. The research is the first randomised control trial of its kind to compare the two mental health training for line managers formats.

Comparing the two different formats against a control group, the impact on participants was evaluated directly after the training and six weeks later.  The results showed that both face-to-face and e-learning training delivered by Mind, the mental health charity, led to sustained changes in the line managers knowledge about mental health and in their preparedness to act on mental health problems.    

The findings that both training methods are equal in effectiveness, allows rail companies to choose the method of delivery that suits their organisation without the risk of compromising effectiveness.