19/11/2025
“I don’t want people to suffer in silence. You never know what people are going through and sometimes they don’t feel they can talk to their family or friends. I want to feel that I have listened to and supported someone who needed it.”
This and today on we’re focusing on mental health and sharing some reflections from Paulo Silva, Head of Hotel Services at The Harborne Hospital.
Paulo began his career with HCA UK in 2010 as part of the concierge team at London Bridge Hospital. Today, he leads Hotel Services at The Harborne Hospital and is one of our dedicated Mental Health First Aiders, playing a vital role in supporting colleagues across the hospital.
“As part of my role, I work closely with most departments and am frequently seen across the hospital site. This visibility means that many people know who I am and feel comfortable approaching me if they need support. I aim to be seen as approachable and understanding, this for me is a key element of being a good manager.
Mental health is something that matters deeply to me. Like anyone else, men face anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress, but societal expectations often make it harder for them to open up. We’ve all heard phrases like ‘real men don’t cry’ or ‘tough it out’ - attitudes that can stop people from seeking help when they need it most. I believe that opening up can break stigma and ultimately, saves lives. It’s vital that we normalise emotional honesty and create safe spaces where everyone feels able to talk about how they’re really feeling.
Being a Mental Health First Aider allows me to make a positive difference. I’m fortunate to be in a position where I can support others, and this in turn contributes to my own wellbeing. Sometimes, simply being there for someone and listening can make all the difference - often, talking things through helps bring clarity, and for others, it can be the first step to seeking further support.
People can feel overwhelmed by what they’re going through, but breaking challenges down into smaller, more manageable parts can help them regain a sense of control. For me, this role is also a way of giving something back. My colleagues have given me so much over the years, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support them when they need it most.”
📸 Paulo (middle) with some of his colleagues at The Harborne Hospital.
