Frequently Asked Questions

Mental Health First Aid is a comprehensive training course that focuses on promoting mental wellbeing, just like physical first aid training, but for mental health. It is a 2-day evidence-based course designed by Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England, a globally recognised organisation. The training is designed by clinical experts and individuals with lived experience, and it has been rigorously tested and is grounded in research. Mental Health First Aid training teaches people how to identify, understand, and support colleagues who may be experiencing mental health concerns. It is an internationally recognised training course, with over 4 million people trained worldwide. Mental Health First Aid training, endorsed by the Royal Society for Public Health, has consistently boosted employee confidence in supporting individuals with poor mental health over the past 15 years. This training is a valuable tool for promoting long-term employee wellbeing, fostering a supportive work environment, and reducing stigma. By completing Mental Health First Aid training, people can make a positive impact by promoting mental wellbeing and providing support to those in need.

Mental Health First Aid training is open to everyone, with no requirement for prior knowledge of mental health. Similar to attending a first aid course, people don't need a medical background to participate. The training is highly recommended for a diverse range of people, including line managers, HR professionals, social care professionals, teachers, parents, foster parents, first responders, staff nurses, local authorities, friends, family members, and individuals with personal experience of mental ill health. The course is designed to provide essential knowledge and skills to anyone interested in supporting mental health. Just as it is valuable for people to have basic knowledge of physical first aid, mental health first aid training is beneficial for individuals in various personal and professional roles. Whether you have direct responsibilities related to mental health or simply want to enhance your ability to support others, Mental Health First Aid training is suitable for anyone aged 16 and above.

When you attend our Mental Health First Aid course, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of mental health and the various factors that contribute to overall wellbeing. The course covers a range of mental health diagnoses, behaviours, and experiences, including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, eating disorders, and psychosis. It's worth noting that all our course facilitators have personal experiences of mental ill health, and they generously share their insights to support your learning, making it authentic and relatable. Through engaging presentations, real-world case studies, group discussions, and individual exercises, you will develop the knowledge and skills to identify, understand, and provide initial support to individuals experiencing mental health concerns. The course also equips you with the confidence to engage in conversations about mental health and signpost individuals to appropriate professional help. You will learn practical strategies for promoting wellbeing, engaging in empathic conversations, and creating a supportive environment. By the end of the course, you will feel empowered to respond to mental health concerns and contribute to the cultivation of a mentally healthy workplace and community.

The course is designed as a 2-day training (a total of 16 hours of learning) which can be delivered either in person or online. The duration of the learning experience is flexible, depending on your preferences and the chosen learning method. For in-person courses, the typical schedule spans two consecutive days, starting from 9am and ending at 5pm. However, we understand that some organisations may prefer to split the course into multiple sessions. For example, we often facilitate courses that take place one day per week, spread over two weeks. This approach allows for better integration into the working week, and minimises disruption. Some participants have valued having breaks between the sessions because it gives them time to reflect on the knowledge gained and return with any questions to further enhance their understanding. Our online course also spans 2 days, but instead of two full days online, it is delivered through four live sessions, totalling the same 16-hour duration. The scheduling of these live sessions is flexible. You could choose to schedule sessions over four afternoons within a single week or spread them out over four consecutive weeks. No additional learning or hours are required beyond the live sessions, making it convenient to balance work and personal commitments. We strive to provide a comprehensive learning experience that caters to your specific requirements, ensuring active engagement and effective knowledge retention.

On completing the course, you will receive a certificate designating you as a 'Mental Health First Aider,' a valuable recognition of your training and commitment. Alongside your certificate, you will also receive: 1. Quick Reference Lanyard Card: This handy card provides immediate access to key information and reminders, allowing you to offer timely support when needed. 2. Comprehensive Workbook with Mental Health Toolkit: The workbook contains essential resources, practical tools, and insightful guidance to reinforce your learning and support your ongoing development as a Mental Health First Aider. 3. Access to MHFAider Support App® for 3 years: You'll get exclusive access to the MHFAider Support App®, offering 24/7 digital support, a wealth of exclusive resources, and ongoing learning opportunities. This app serves as a valuable companion, empowering you to enhance your knowledge, access further guidance, and stay connected with a community of Mental Health First Aiders. These takeaways ensure that you are equipped not only with the necessary knowledge but also with practical tools and ongoing support to confidently provide mental health assistance.

Each training course can be attended by between 8 and 16 people. If you’d like to train your whole team or your whole business, we can run multiple sessions to suit your needs, please send an enquiry to discuss this further.

Yes, upon completing the course, you will receive an electronic certificate as proof of your training. We are committed to promoting environmental sustainability, and therefore, electronic certificates are our preferred option. However, if you prefer a paper copy, you can request one, and we will be happy to accommodate your preference. Just like with physical first aid, your certificate is valid for three years, demonstrating your status as a trained Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®). It serves as a valuable recognition of your dedication to promoting mental well-being and your ability to provide essential support to those in need. In addition, your certificate grants you access to the MHFAider® support app for three years. This app provides a wealth of valuable resources and ongoing support to further enhance your knowledge and skills. Should you misplace or lose your certificate after training with us, don't worry! Simply contact our team, and we will assist you in obtaining a replacement copy. After the initial three-year period, you will have the opportunity to attend a four-hour refresher course. This allows you to renew your certification for another three years and regain access to the MHFAider® support app. Participating in the refresher course ensures that your knowledge and skills remain up to date, enabling you to continue making a positive impact in supporting mental health. We encourage you to proudly share your Mental Health First Aider certificate on your LinkedIn profile or other social media platforms. By doing so, you actively combat the stigma surrounding mental health and demonstrate to your network that you are open to discussing and supporting individuals experiencing poor mental health. Your certificate serves as a powerful symbol of your commitment to promoting mental well-being and creating a supportive environment for those who may be struggling.

Similar to physical first aid, your Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training certification is valid for three years.

Mental Health First Aid training is not currently mandatory for organisations in the UK. However, it is important to note that there are ongoing discussions in UK Parliament regarding the potential for mandatory mental health first aid provision scheduled to take place. In 2018, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) updated their guidance, emphasising the need for employers to consider mental health support and training alongside physical First Aid at Work training. This guidance highlights the growing recognition of the importance of mental health training and support in the workplace. In 2021, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and Public Health England released new guidance recommending that all UK employers provide mental health training to line managers. Investing in mental health training now can help future-proof your organisation. By staying ahead of potential regulations and demonstrating a commitment to mental health support, you can ensure your organisation remains resilient and adaptable in the face of changing requirements. Staying informed about the progress of the Mental Health First Aid bill and updates from organisations such as the HSE, NICE, and Public Health England is key to ensure your organisation remains up-to-date with the latest recommendations in mental health support.

The specific number of Mental Health First Aiders required may vary depending on factors such as the size of the organisation, the nature of the work environment, and the unique needs of employees. We recommend employers to aim for a ratio of one first-aider for every 10 employees. By ensuring a balanced representation of Mental Health First Aiders, you create a workplace where there are knowledgeable individuals available to provide initial support and guidance to those facing mental health challenges. This promotes a culture that prioritises mental wellbeing and encourages individuals to seek help when needed.

We offer both online and face-to-face delivery options for all of our training courses and workshops to suit your preferences. For online sessions, we use video conferencing platforms to create an interactive virtual learning experience. This allows participants to join from any location, making it convenient and accessible for remote teams or individuals. For face-to-face sessions, we can deliver the courses either on-site at your office or at a local training venue. This option provides a more traditional in-person learning environment, promoting direct interaction and hands-on activities. In addition, we understand the evolving workplace dynamics and the need for flexibility. Therefore, we also offer hybrid training options. This means that for certain courses and workshops, we can deliver an in-person session at your office while simultaneously providing a live video streaming link for remote participants to join virtually. This hybrid approach ensures that everyone can participate and benefit from the training, regardless of their location. Whether you prefer online, face-to-face, or a combination of both, we are committed to delivering high-quality training experiences that meet your specific requirements. Please get in touch to discuss your preferred delivery method and explore the best options for your team or organisation.

Yes, we offer the flexibility to deliver the courses at your office location. To conduct the course at your office, you will need a suitable meeting room that provides adequate privacy and confidentiality for the participants. The room should be equipped with a TV or projector and be large enough to comfortably accommodate all attendees. Ensuring a private and confidential learning environment is essential to create a safe space for open discussions and personal sharing during the course. By choosing to have the course delivered at your office, you can save time and minimise any potential disruptions to your team's schedule. Our experienced instructors will bring all the necessary materials and resources to facilitate an engaging and informative learning experience. To arrange an on-site training session at your office, please get in touch with us, and we will work closely with you to coordinate the logistics and ensure a seamless delivery of the course. Please note that in addition to on-site training, we also offer online courses for added flexibility and accessibility. You can choose the delivery method that best suits your needs and preferences.

Both online and in-person courses offer valuable learning experiences, and the choice depends on your personal preferences and comfort with different learning formats. The online course provides the flexibility of learning from the comfort of your own space. It involves engaging video sessions and interactive discussions. However, it's important to note that the online course requires participants to have their camera on throughout the sessions. If you are comfortable with online learning and enjoy the convenience it offers, the online course can be an excellent option for you. On the other hand, the face-to-face course provides a focused learning environment away from online distractions. By attending in person, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself fully in the course without the interruptions of notifications and emails. If you prefer a more concentrated learning experience and enjoy the dynamics of in-person interactions, the face-to-face course may be the better choice for you. If you find it difficult to decide between the two formats, we also offer a hybrid course. The hybrid course combines elements of both online and face-to-face learning. This blended approach allows you to benefit from the convenience of online sessions while still having the opportunity for in-person engagement. Ultimately, the choice between online, face-to-face, or hybrid learning depends on your learning style, preferences, and individual circumstances. We are here to assist you in making the best choice based on your needs, ensuring a rewarding learning experience regardless of the format you choose. Regardless of whether you choose online, face-to-face, or a hybrid model, our priority is to deliver high-quality training that equips participants with the knowledge and skills to support mental health effectively. We are dedicated to ensuring that both offices and schools have access to the training they need to create a mentally healthy environment.

The maximum number of participants per course is 16 people. We believe in maintaining a conducive learning environment where each participant receives individual attention and support. However, we understand that different organisations and circumstances may require accommodating larger groups. If you have specific requirements or would like to discuss the possibility of including more participants, please send us an enquiry. We are flexible and committed to finding the best solution to meet your needs. Please note that the minimum number of participants required for the course is 8. This ensures a collaborative and interactive learning experience, where participants can engage with each other and benefit from shared perspectives and insights. We prioritise the quality of training and the individual experience of each participant. We strive to create an optimal learning environment that fosters engagement, interaction, and meaningful skill development. Contact us today to discuss your specific requirements, and let's make your Mental Health First Aid training a success.

MHFA England is an internationally recognised social enterprise. MHFA England is the content creator of the Mental Health First Aid training course and licensed provider of Mental Health First Aid Instructor Training in England. As a social enterprise, they are a company without shareholders, dedicated to promoting mental health and wellbeing. All our trainers are qualified MHFA England instructors who have undergone MHFA England's rigorous instructor training programme. All MHFA instructor members are accredited by the Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH).

The Mental Health First Aid course is specifically designed for attendees aged 16 years and above. It equips participants with the knowledge and skills to support individuals experiencing mental health challenges in adulthood. However, we do offer a Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course, tailored for parents, teachers, and individuals who work with young people aged 8-18. The Youth MHFA course provides valuable insights and strategies to recognise the signs of poor mental health in young people, offer appropriate first aid, and guide them towards the necessary support. By intervening early, we can accelerate a young person's recovery and prevent their mental health issues from getting worse. Additionally, our founder, Kate O'Leary, has extensive experience in designing and delivering mental health awareness lessons to secondary schools across the UK, covering key stages 3, 4, and 5. This expertise ensures that our courses align with the needs of young people and the educational environment. If you would like to find out more about the Youth Mental Health First Aid course or to book Kate to teach a Mental Health Awareness lesson at you’re your school, please get in touch with us.