It specialises in online distance learning and will offer free training to Sodexo employees working in its schools and universities across the UK and Ireland.
Between 2012 and 2017 the number of students seeking mental health support services rose by 50%. In 2015/16 more than 15,000 first-year students reported a mental health problem.
Laura Burgess, human resources director for Sodexo Schools and Universities, said: “Our schools and universities employees have the privilege of working with young people every day. With one in ten young people having a mental health diagnosis, we feel it’s our duty to support our employees by giving them opportunities to better understand this important topic.
“We believe having a better understanding of mental health will have a positive impact on the young people we work with and our team members.”
The new initiative aims to develop an understanding of mental health and wellbeing among Sodexo employees, who can then better identify the signs of mental health among their colleagues and potentially students.
James Earl, sales director at The Skills Network, said: “We’re delighted to launch such a powerful and meaningful project with one of the world’s largest employers.
“We believe that what we have embarked on will make a huge difference to the awareness of mental health within the organisation and look forward to seeing the positive results it can bring to all stakeholders within Sodexo.”