This course helps learners understand common mental health conditions, recognise possible warning signs and respond to someone experiencing difficulty. Participants will develop practical communication skills and learn how to provide initial support while maintaining appropriate personal and professional boundaries.

The course does not train participants to diagnose conditions or provide therapy.

Course Objectives

Build the confidence and practical skills needed to recognise signs of poor mental health, start supportive conversations and guide people towards appropriate professional help. SB Skills provides Mental Health First Aid training for individuals and organisations across Lancashire and the North West.

By the end of the course, learners should be able to:

• Improve their understanding of mental health and wellbeing
• Recognise possible signs of common mental health conditions
• Approach and communicate with someone who may be struggling
• Listen without judgement and offer appropriate initial support
• Understand the importance of confidentiality and boundaries
• Signpost individuals towards professional and emergency support
• Respond appropriately to a potential mental health crisis
• Challenge stigma and encourage positive workplace conversations
• Consider their own wellbeing when supporting other people

Who should attend?

This course is suitable for anyone who wants to improve their understanding of mental health and become more confident supporting others, including:

• Managers and supervisors
• HR and health and safety professionals
• Workplace wellbeing champions
• Team leaders
• Construction and site personnel
• Employees with responsibility for colleagues
• Community and voluntary-sector workers
• Individuals interested in mental health awareness

No previous mental health training is normally required.

Course Content

Course content may include:

• Understanding mental health and wellbeing
• Factors that can affect a person’s mental health
• Stress, anxiety and depression
• Warning signs and changes in behaviour
• Starting a supportive conversation
• Active and non-judgemental listening
• Providing reassurance and practical information
• Signposting to professional services
• Supporting someone experiencing a crisis
• Suicide awareness and appropriate intervention
• Maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Developing a mentally healthier workplace
• Protecting your own mental health and wellbeing

Only include conditions and topics that are genuinely covered by your particular course.

What does a Mental Health First Aider do?

A Mental Health First Aider provides initial support to someone who may be experiencing poor mental health or emotional distress. They can listen, offer reassurance and direct the person towards suitable professional help.

They do not diagnose mental health conditions, provide counselling or replace qualified healthcare professionals.

This distinction is important and would work well as a coloured information box.

Are there any entry requirements?

No previous qualifications or mental health training are normally required. Learners should be able to participate in group discussions and understand the course materials.

Some subjects may be emotionally sensitive. Anyone concerned about participating should contact SB Skills before booking so that appropriate support and course suitability can be discussed.

How is the course assessed?

Learners will participate in discussions, activities and practical scenarios throughout the course. Any formal assessment requirements will depend on the selected course.

Successful learners will receive an accredited certificate, valid for three years.

Avoid describing the course as accredited unless SB Skills is authorised to deliver that specific qualification.

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