Mental Health First Aid England Training
Delivered in a safe, inclusive classroom environment, this course helps organisations build a
proactive approach to mental wellbeing — reducing stigma, encouraging early intervention, and
supporting healthier workplaces.
MAST Safety delivers this course in line with MHFA England’s recognised framework, ensuring
learners receive high-quality, accredited training that is widely respected by employers across
the UK.
What the MHFA course covers
Across two structured classroom days, learners will develop the skills to:
- Recognise early signs of poor mental health
- Approach and support someone experiencing mental distress
- Communicate confidently using appropriate language
- Understand boundaries, confidentiality and the MHFAider role
- Encourage access to professional and community support
- Build personal resilience and practise self-care
Training is interactive and discussion-based, helping learners apply their knowledge
confidently in real-world situations.
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for anyone who wants to better understand mental health and provide
meaningful support, including workplace mental health champions, managers and supervisors,
HR teams, construction, manufacturing and site-based workers, and anyone supporting
colleagues, clients or team members. No prior mental health knowledge is required.
- Duration: 2 days (face-to-face)
- Delivery: Classroom-based training
- Certification: Valid for 3 years
- Group size: Small groups to support discussion and learning
Successful learners become Mental Health First Aiders and receive recognised certification from
Mental Health First Aid England.
Not sure this is the right course?
If you’re deciding between Mental Health First Aid and
ASIST, we’ve put together a
short guide that explains the differences and helps you choose the right option.
Course benefits
- Improves mental health awareness across teams
- Encourages early support and intervention
- Helps reduce stigma around mental health conversations
- Supports legal and moral well-being responsibilities
- Contributes to a healthier, more supportive workplace culture
Why train with MAST Safety?
- Experienced, supportive trainers
- Practical, workplace-focused delivery
- Comfortable training environment
- Trusted health & safety training provider
- Ongoing support before and after your course
Frequently asked questions
What is Mental Health First Aid training?
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training is a certified course that teaches you how to recognise the signs of poor mental health, start supportive conversations, and signpost individuals to appropriate professional help. The course gives you practical skills to provide first-level support in the workplace while understanding your role, boundaries and confidentiality responsibilities.
Is this course accredited?
Yes. This is the official Mental Health First Aid England course. On successful completion, delegates receive an official MHFA England certificate (valid for 3 years), access to the Association of Mental Health First Aiders, ongoing learning resources and support, and access to the MHFAider Support App.
How long does the Mental Health First Aid course take?
The course is delivered face-to-face over 2 full days (14 hours total). It includes instructor-led learning, group discussions, practical exercises and real-life scenarios to build confidence in applying a Mental Health First Aid action plan.
How long is the Mental Health First Aid certificate valid for?
Your MHFA England certification is valid for 3 years. After this period, refresher training is recommended to maintain confidence and stay up to date with best practice.
Is Mental Health First Aid training a legal requirement?
Mental Health First Aid is not currently a legal requirement in the UK. However, employers are legally required to assess and manage work-related stress under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Providing Mental Health First Aiders is widely recognised as best practice and demonstrates proactive commitment to employee wellbeing.
Can Mental Health First Aid training be delivered in-house?
Yes. MAST Safety can arrange Mental Health First Aid training as an in-house course at your premises, subject to minimum delegate numbers. This is ideal for construction companies, manufacturing businesses, offices, schools and organisations wanting to train multiple team members at once.
What is the difference between Mental Health First Aid and ASIST training?
Mental Health First Aid training focuses on recognising poor mental health and providing early support and signposting. ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) is a more intensive two-day course that teaches participants how to recognise and intervene when someone may be at immediate risk of suicide. MAST Safety offers both courses and can advise on which is most suitable for your organisation.
How do I find and book a course?
Tell us the course you need and your availability, and one of our course advisors will find the most suitable accredited course for you and handle the booking. Rather than list every date here, we match you to a course that fits, and reply the same working day by phone or email, whichever you ask for.
Can you help with group or on-site training?
Yes. For six or more delegates a private group course is often more cost-effective. Ask a course advisor and we’ll arrange a group course at your premises or a nearby centre.