A practical introduction to mental health support
Anyone can be affected by a mental health condition, whether personally or through a family member, friend or colleague.
This four-hour awareness course introduces learners to First Aid for Mental Health and gives them the confidence to respond appropriately when they are concerned about someone.
UFAS delivers the Nuco Training First Aid for Mental Health programme. Successful learners receive the FAA Level 1 Award in Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health (RQF), an Ofqual-regulated qualification.
Who it is for
- This course is suitable for members of the public and employees at every level.
- It is particularly useful for organisations that want to improve mental health awareness across their workforce before appointing designated First Aiders for Mental Health.
- No previous qualifications or experience are required. Learners must be at least 14 years old with a supervising adult present.
What you will learn
- What First Aid for Mental Health is
- How to recognise a suspected mental health condition
- How to provide initial support and start a conversation
- How to signpost someone towards appropriate professional help
The course is interactive and gives learners time to discuss realistic situations in a supportive environment.
Duration and assessment
The course takes approximately four hours.
Learners complete a multiple-choice question paper at the end of the course. The assessment must be completed successfully to receive the qualification.
Certification and renewal
Successful learners receive the FAA Level 1 Award in Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health (RQF).
The qualification is valid for three years from the date of achievement. Annual refresher training is strongly recommended.
To requalify for a further three years, learners must complete the full course again.
On-site and open courses
UFAS can deliver this course at your workplace anywhere in Ireland, subject to a short assessment of the training room.
A maximum of 16 learners can attend each course. Repeat sessions and multi-site programmes can be arranged for larger organisations.
Course details
Qualification
FAA Level 1 Award in Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health (RQF)
Programme
Nuco Training First Aid for Mental Health
Duration
Approximately 4 hours
Assessment
Multiple-choice question paper
Minimum age
14, with a supervising adult present
Maximum group size
16 learners
Qualification validity
3 years
Delivery
On-site across Ireland or as a scheduled open course
Frequently asked questions
Is this a regulated qualification?
Yes. Successful learners receive the FAA Level 1 Award in Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health (RQF), regulated by Ofqual.
Does this course qualify me as a workplace First Aider for Mental Health?
This is an awareness-level qualification. Learners who will act as designated workplace First Aiders for Mental Health should consider the Level 2 course.
Do I need previous experience?
No. There are no formal prerequisites, and the course is suitable for complete beginners.
Can UFAS deliver the course at our workplace?
Yes. UFAS delivers on-site group training throughout Ireland, subject to a suitable training room.
Ready to train your team?
Call 01 699 1126 or email info@ufas.ie to discuss an on-site course or upcoming course dates.

