This training follows on from the successful delivery of a similar programme in 2020 which saw:
- 30 companies engaged
- 64 delegates trained as Mental Health First Aiders
- 9.63/10 average delegate rating - likelihood of recommending the course
I learnt a lot from the course and feel I would be able to help someone who was experiencing mental ill-health, something I would not have had the confidence or knowledge to do so previously. Course Delegate, October 2020
Excellent Course. I would highly recommend it and would fully support it being a legal requirement in businesses. Course Delegate, October 2020
Why is this training free?
This training is being funded by NHS England, in partnership with the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Suicide Prevention Steering Group.
Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent have one of the highest suicide rates in the UK. Between 2012 and 2016, 384 of our neighbours, loved ones and friends took their own lives.
In response to this statistic, the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Suicide Prevention Steering Group was formed. Comprising of Staffordshire County Council (SCC), Stoke on Trent City Council (SOTCC), Clinical Commissioning Groups, other medical experts, community leaders, and a range of public sector representatives: this group is dedicated to addressing the root causes of mental ill-health behind this suicide rate.
Together with the NHS, they asked Altruist Enterprises, experts in facilitating mental health training in workplaces, to train the region’s employers and HR teams in Mental Health First Aid. Creating a safe environment for your staff to talk about how they are feeling will save lives.
Who is this training for?
The fully-funded Mental Health First Aid training is for Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent based businesses only. Each organisation is eligible for three fully-funded places on an MHFA course (normally £900).
To be eligible for this free Mental Health First Aid training, your business must meet the following criteria:
- Have a site based in Stoke-on-Trent, Cannock Chase, Lichfield, South Staffordshire, Staffordshire Moorlands, East Staffordshire, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stafford or Tamworth
- If you are not based in any of the above areas but have employees that live in Staffordshire or Stoke on Trent, you may also be eligible.
- You are keen to implement employee mental wellbeing initiatives
What is a Mental Health First Aider?
Similar to a First Aider who is the go-to-person for immediate assistance with physical health or illness, a Mental Health First Aider is the first port of call for anyone experiencing a mental health issue.
It is important to remember that the Mental Health First Aider course does not teach people to be therapists or counsellors and does not teach people how to diagnose mental health conditions or provide ongoing support.
The Mental Health First Aider role is to act as a point of contact and reassurance for a person who may be experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress. Maintaining appropriate boundaries is a key part of successfully providing Mental Health First Aid and keeping yourself well.
Where does this training take place?
The MHFA training takes place online via the Enabley platform, over four manageable sessions.
Find out more about the mental health first aid online training course.
Our instructor Sharon was absolutely fantastic, she encouraged everyone to take part and led the course perfectly. I would definitely recommend this course to others. Course Delegate, October 2020
When do the fully-funded MHFA courses take place?
The next four courses will take place on the following dates and times:
April 2021:
- Thursday 8th April 2021 - 9.30am - 11.30am
- Thursday 15th April 2021 - 9.30am - 11.50am
- Thursday 22nd April 2021 - 9.30am - 11.30am
- Thursday 29th April 2021 - 9.30am - 11.30am
May 2021:
- Tuesday 4th May 2021 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
- Tuesday 11th May 2021 - 1:30pm - 3:50pm
- Tuesday 18th May 2021 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
- Tuesday 25th May 2021 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
May/June 2021:
- Wednesday 26th May 2021 - 9:30am - 11:30am
- Wednesday 2nd June 2021- 9:30am - 11:50am
- Wednesday 9th June 2021 - 9:30am - 11:30am
- Wednesday 16th June 2021 - 9:30am - 11:30am
June/July 2021:
- Friday 25th June 2021 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
- Friday 2nd July 2021 - 1:30pm - 3:50pm
- Friday 9th July - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
- Friday 16th July - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Each delegate must attend all four sessions and complete self-guided learning in between to qualify as a Mental Health First Aider.
It was insightful, well laid out and easy to follow. Our tutor, Sharon, was amazing. Quality of tutoring was 10/10, clear concise and professional. Will be recommending this course to many people. Thank you. Course Delegate, November 2020
How do I book my place?
To book your place, please email info@altruistuk.com stating your name, role, and organisation or contact us. Please also include a short message to confirm your eligibility for the programme and indicate your preferred dates.
Limited spaces are available so book now to avoid disappointment.