Level 3 Supervising First Aid for Mental Health

By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

• Recognise and differentiate a wide range of mental health conditions (e.g. depression, psychosis, bipolar, self-harm)

• Use structured mental health first aid models/guidance to support individuals in distress

• Intervene in crisis situations (suicidal ideation, self-harm, psychotic episodes) safely

• Promote recovery, well-being and resilience while maintaining professional boundaries

• Signpost to appropriate resources and help create a supportive mental health culture

This qualification typically covers modules as follows:

• Foundations of mental health: stigma, prevalence, terminology

• Risk & protective factors, early warning signs

• Deep dive into conditions: depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar, eating disorders

• Crisis states: suicide, self-harm, substance misuse, psychotic crisis

• Structured intervention model (e.g. ALGEE or equivalent)

• Communication skills: motivational interviewing, compassionate listening, boundary setting

• Legal & ethical issues: confidentiality, safeguarding, duty of care

• Scenario drills & role-play: guided feedback on real-life situations

• Assessment: Assessment / exam and observed practical tasks

• • Instructor-led workshop sessions supported by mental health experts

  • Learner registration and Level 3 Mental Health First Aid (RQF) certification upon passing

  • Course materials: manuals, toolkits, reference guides and framework summaries

  • Practice role-play & scenario materials

  • Refreshments and parking (in-centre training)

  • Post-course support: resource access, refresher prompts and peer network

To enrol, learners should meet the following criteria:

• Age: 18+ (or 16+ with parental consent)

• English: Competent in reading, writing and verbal communication in English

• Emotional resilience: Able to engage with sensitive topics such as mental distress or crisis

• Attendance: Must attend all sessions to successfully complete the course

• Photo ID: Valid identification required for registration

• Prior knowledge (recommended): Completion of Level 1 or 2 Mental Health First Aid is beneficial but not mandatory

We want everyone to feel confident and supported—tell us what you need and we’ll do our best to help.

• Reasonable adjustments: We can provide adjustments (e.g., extra time, rest breaks, adapted assessment methods) in line with awarding-body rules—without compromising safety or competence.

• How to request: Tell us about any learning, access, health or language needs before the course so we can plan support.

• Examples of support: Larger-print materials, quieter seating, alternative demonstration positions, scheduled breaks, adapted practical roles.

• Health considerations: Please let us know about injuries, mobility limits, pregnancy or conditions that may affect practicals; we’ll tailor activities where safe to do so.

• Venue access: Our centre has step-free access, accessible toilets and parking; on-site training can be adapted to your space—ask us for specific arrangements.