Where a mental health needs assessment identifies the necessity for designated Mental Health First Aiders in the workplace, this 6-hour certification provides participants with the knowledge and practical skills to recognise a range of mental health conditions and offer initial support to individuals in crisis or distress.

This qualification is also suitable for those with responsibility for the provision of mental health first aiders in other settings, such as voluntary, community, and educational environments.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

This qualification is available to participants aged 16 or over. However, individuals cannot assume the responsibility of being a mental health first aider in the workplace until they reach the age of 18.

It is recommended that participants hold a minimum of Level 1 in literacy or equivalent to undertake this course.

Where required, Skills Shop may grant reasonable adjustments in line with our Reasonable Adjustment and Special Consideration Policy. This may include reading or writing support for those with disabilities, medical conditions, or additional learning needs.

Participants are encouraged to contact their trainer/assessor in advance if they have any concerns about access or participation.

QUALIFICATION DELIVERY

The certification has 6 assigned guided learning hours (GLH) and 6 hours total qualification time (TQT).

• GLH refers to the number of hours a participant is taught or assessed by the trainer/assessor.
• TQT includes both GLH and any unsupervised learning, such as pre-reading or completion of reflective tasks.

This course is typically delivered over one full day or two half-day sessions.

You may also choose to deliver the course using a blended learning format. In this case, the distance learning portion must not exceed one third of the total GLH—i.e. a maximum of 2 hours distance learning, with 4 hours delivered face-to-face.

The maximum participant-to-trainer ratio is 16:1.

QUALIFICATION VALIDITY

The Mental Health First Aid certification is valid for three years from the date of achievement.

REQUALIFICATION

As per HSE guidance, once a certificate has expired, the individual is no longer considered competent to act as a Mental Health First Aider in the workplace.

To remain certified, participants will need to complete the full 6-hour course again.

We recommend arranging requalification within three months of the expiry date. If requalification is completed within this time frame, the new certificate can be backdated to the original expiry date, ensuring continuity without loss of days.

QUALIFICATION ASSESSMENT

Assessment is carried out through a combination of:

• Group discussion and activities
• Individual tasks
• Questioning and practical application of learning

There is no grading. Participants will either pass or be referred for further development.

PROGRESSION

This 6-hour Mental Health First Aid qualification may form part of an organisation’s strategy for promoting positive mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. It may also lead to further qualifications or more advanced mental health or wellbeing training.

QUALIFICATION STRUCTURE

The qualification consists of one unit. Participants must complete this successfully to be awarded the Mental Health First Aid Certification.