Build the confidence to take supportive action
Mental health concerns can affect anyone.
In the workplace, having trained people who know how to recognise a possible concern, start a supportive conversation and guide a colleague towards professional help can make it easier for someone to seek support early.
UFAS delivers the Nuco Training First Aid for Mental Health programme. Successful learners receive the FAA Level 2 Award in First Aid for Mental Health (RQF), an Ofqual-regulated qualification.
Learners must be at least 14 years old with a supervising adult present.
Who it is for
This course is suitable for anyone who wants a fuller understanding of First Aid for Mental Health.
It is particularly relevant for employees who will act as designated First Aiders for Mental Health or as a point of contact for colleagues who may need support.
The course can also help employers build a more positive mental health culture and establish a clearer process for supportive conversations and professional signposting.
The Level 1 Awareness course is a useful introduction, but it is not a formal prerequisite. 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 range of common mental health conditions
- How to provide initial support and start a conversation
- The effects of drugs and alcohol
- How to use the First Aid for Mental Health Action Plan
- First Aid for Mental Health in the workplace
- How to signpost someone towards appropriate professional help
- How to continue supporting someone while they receive professional assistance
The course does not train learners to diagnose or treat mental health conditions. It focuses on recognition, supportive action and appropriate signposting.
Duration and assessment
The course takes six hours and is normally delivered over one day.
Assessment has two parts:
- A practical demonstration of the First Aid for Mental Health Action Plan
- A multiple-choice question paper
Both assessment elements must be completed successfully to receive the qualification.
Certification and renewal
Successful learners receive the FAA Level 2 Award in 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 Level 2 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, multi-site delivery and ongoing training programmes can be arranged for larger organisations.
Course details
Qualification
FAA Level 2 Award in First Aid for Mental Health (RQF)
Programme
Nuco Training First Aid for Mental Health
Duration
6 hours, normally delivered over 1 day
Assessment
Practical Action Plan demonstration and 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
What does a First Aider for Mental Health do?
A First Aider for Mental Health is trained to recognise a suspected mental health condition, start a supportive conversation, follow the course Action Plan and signpost the person towards appropriate professional help.
Can a First Aider for Mental Health diagnose someone?
No. The course does not qualify learners to diagnose or treat mental health conditions. The role is to recognise possible concerns, offer initial support and encourage appropriate professional help.
Do I need to complete Level 1 first?
No. The Level 1 course is a useful introduction, but it is not listed as a formal prerequisite for Level 2.
How is the course assessed?
Learners complete a practical demonstration of the First Aid for Mental Health Action Plan and a multiple-choice question paper.
How long does the qualification last?
The qualification is valid for three years. Annual refresher training is strongly recommended, and the full course must be completed again to requalify.
Ready to book or discuss workplace training?
Call 01 699 1126 or email info@ufas.ie to discuss an on-site course, multi-site programme or upcoming course dates.