Scottish mental health first aid certificate

WHAT

The Scottish Mental Health First Aid Certificate is an NHS devised, Scottish Government promoted qualification that is internationally recognised.

It is one of only two courses in Scotland that specifically targets suicide prevention and the participants receive training in this area. The Scottish government continues to systematically review the delivery of the course and through this believes the SMHFA course to have played a vital role in reducing the suicide rate in Scotland over the last ten years.

Through learning about various mental health conditions such as: depression, anxiety,  self-harm and listening skills, the course trains individuals to recognise a mental health crisis, provide immediate support and then sign post to a suitable professional, whilst at the same time safe guarding themselves. An added benefit of the course is that through learning to support others the participant learns valuable methods for maintaining their own mental health.

WHO

Good mental health is increasingly becoming a concern nationwide. Within companies and institutions there is desire to ensure that staff are developing their own resilience in this area and the SMHFA is a concise, practical and efficient way for individuals to do this.

While the SMHFA Certificate is an amazing support in the workplace the course is open to everyone interested in improving their own mental health and supporting that of others. The hope of the Scottish Government is that the more people gain the qualification the more mental health is discussed in our daily lives, reducing the taboo around the subject.

HOW

Each course runs for twelve hours. The delivery of the course can be modified to suit your requirements , but I suggest no more than three sessions is best. Typically two sessions of six hours, works best. This can also be done at weekends.

Each participant will receive a manual containing resources and cd materials to use for themselves or others. For the course to run well I suggest minimum of ten participants, maximum of twenty.

WHERE

The course can be provided in-house for companies or charities or interested parties can attend one of our community held courses. I run courses in Glasgow and Fife.

COSTS

Costs are set by the NHS and paid directly to the SMHFA trainers. Discounts can be offered if multiple courses are being booked.

BOOK

Go to contacts page to get in touch and book.