Physical first aid is only part of workplace readiness. Mental Health First Aid helps people recognise and respond to mental health problems early.
HSE first-aid guidance emphasises considering mental health in your needs assessment. Many employers book Adult MHFA (or equivalent) for managers and peers alongside EFAW/FAW - see Mental Health First Aid England for programme context.
What is Mental Health First Aid?
Structured training (often two days for Adult MHFA England programmes) covering common mental health problems, crisis signs, listening skills and pathways to professional help - not therapy training.
Typical duration: Frequently 2 days for full Adult MHFA; shorter awareness options exist
Certificate life: Programme-specific (e.g. MHFA England); plan refreshers per that framework
Who usually needs this training?
- Employers building psychosocial risk controls
- Line managers and HR business partners
- Education, care and high-stress workplaces
Your options when arranging mental health first aid training
Ways to arrange it:
- Closed Adult MHFA courses for managers
- Mental health awareness sessions for all staff
- Youth MHFA where you work with young people
What to look for in a mental health first aid trainer or training company
- Instructors licensed for the specific MHFA brand/programme you want
- Safe, inclusive facilitation skills
- Clear boundaries: first aid ≠ counselling
Name the exact programme (e.g. MHFA England Adult) in your FlexMed post so only qualified instructors apply.
Authoritative guidance
Check primary sources before you buy - FlexMed helps you hire trainers, but course requirements come from regulators, statutory frameworks and professional bodies:
How FlexMed helps you find the right trainer
FlexMed is a UK marketplace that connects organisations with freelance trainers and training companies. Instead of cold-calling providers or waiting on generic quote forms, you can post what you need once and compare responses from people who already deliver mental health first aid.
- Create a free organisation account - register as a client organisation if you need training delivered for your staff, or as a training company if you need freelance trainer cover for a course you already run.
- Post a clear request or job - include the course type (Mental Health First Aid), date(s), postcode area, headcount, venue type, and whether you need equipment supplied.
- Review profiles and credentials - check bios, verification documents, equipment flags, and ratings before you award.
- Compare quotes and message - ask about awarding organisation, assessment method, blended learning options, and what is included in the price.
Trainers and providers looking for work can also browse open jobs on FlexMed.
Practical tips before you book
- Complete a first-aid / training needs assessment so you book the right level - not just the cheapest day course. The HSE first aid needs assessment guidance is the usual starting point for workplaces.
- Confirm whether you need regulated qualifications, in-date certificates, or specific awarding bodies for your sector.
- Share access details, parking, and any learner needs early so the session runs smoothly.
- Ask who issues the certificates and how quickly learners receive them after assessment.
Combine physical and mental health first-aid planning - then hire MHFA instructors through FlexMed.