Mental Health First Aid Trainer Course

Yes! You can complete the full Mental Health First Aid Trainer course online via live Zoom and receive the exact same Level 3 SafeCert certification as the in-person course.

The Zoom course runs over 3 days (10am–4:30pm) with live interaction, group discussions, and assessment. All materials are sent before the course starts so you can prepare thoroughly.

ALGEE is the core action plan taught in Mental Health First Aid training. It provides a structured approach to supporting someone experiencing a mental health crisis:

• AApproach, assess, and assist with any crisis — safely approach the person and assess the situation
• LListen and communicate non-judgementally — give the person your full attention
• GGive support and information — provide reassurance and relevant information
• EEncourage appropriate professional help — guide them to seek the right support
• EEncourage other supports — help them connect with friends, family, and community

As a qualified Mental Health First Aid Trainer, you will teach this action plan to others, helping organisations build a culture of mental health awareness and support.

Your Mental Health First Aid Trainer Award is typically valid for 3 years. It is recommended to complete refresher training every 3 years and maintain annual CPD (Continuing Professional Development) to stay current with mental health research, legislation, and best practices. Abertay provides ongoing support and refresher options for all qualified trainers.

Note: Mental health guidance and clinical best practices evolve regularly. As a trainer, you should ensure your knowledge reflects the most current evidence-based approaches at all times.

Both MHFA England and SafeCert offer respected mental health first aid qualifications. The key differences are:

The SafeCert Level 3 qualification allows you to train unlimited staff with no ongoing licence fees, making it a cost-effective choice for organisations.

The course fee of £450 + VAT includes:

• Level 3 SafeCert Mental Health First Aid Trainer Award
• PDLSG teaching qualification (FREE — worth £150)
• Comprehensive trainer manual
• PowerPoint presentations for your own training sessions
• Lesson plans and session guides
• Assessment forms and templates
• Delegate handouts and workbooks
• Certificate upon successful completion

Group discounts are available for organisations booking 3 or more places. Contact us for a bespoke quote.

No — you do not need to be a mental health professional to attend the Mental Health First Aid Trainer course. The course is open to anyone who wants to promote mental health awareness in the workplace, regardless of their current role.

Mental Health First Aid trainers are not therapists or counsellors. Their role is to provide initial support, reduce stigma, and guide people towards appropriate professional help — not to provide clinical treatment.

Previous mental health experience is helpful but not required. The course is designed to take you from beginner to qualified trainer in just three days, with all the resources you need to start teaching immediately.

Having qualified Mental Health First Aid trainers in your organisation can deliver significant benefits:

• Reduced absenteeism — early intervention can prevent minor issues becoming serious
• Improved productivity — employees who feel supported perform better
• Reduced stigma — open conversations about mental health create a healthier culture
• Legal compliance — demonstrates duty of care under health and safety legislation
• Cost savings — poor mental health costs UK employers £56 billion annually
• Staff retention — employees are more likely to stay in organisations that support their wellbeing

Investing in mental health first aid training is not just the right thing to do — it makes sound business sense.