Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) – 2‑Day Certification
We all have mental health, just as we all have physical health. Understanding how to recognise, support and respond to mental health challenges is an increasingly important skill in today's workplace.
SIGTA's Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) – 2-Day Certification course equips learners with the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to act as a trained Mental Health First Aider in the workplace.
This in-depth programme focuses on early recognition, supportive intervention and guiding individuals towards appropriate help, while promoting positive conversations around mental health and reducing stigma.
On satisfactory completion and final assessment of the course, a certificate valid for three years will be issued.
Course Overview
Our Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) – 2-Day Certification course provides comprehensive training in understanding mental health and supporting individuals who may be experiencing mental ill health.
The course explores a wide range of mental health conditions, factors that affect wellbeing, and the impact mental health can have at work and in everyday life. Training combines structured theory, group discussion, practical activities and real-world scenarios, helping learners develop confidence in recognising signs of mental health issues, responding appropriately in difficult situations and offering initial support.
Participants are introduced to the MHFA Action Plan (ALGEE) and learn how to use it to provide calm, non-judgemental assistance and encourage professional support where needed.
Learners are also introduced to the ongoing support available to Mental Health First Aiders, including the MHFAider Support App and the confidential text support service, Shout, helping them access guidance and resources beyond the course.
The course also explores the impact of stigma surrounding mental health and the important role Mental Health First Aiders play in creating a more open, inclusive and supportive workplace culture. Learners gain an understanding that mental health challenges can affect anyone and develop the confidence to provide appropriate support when it is needed.
This course is designed to support employers in meeting their first aid responsibilities and aligns with current Health & Safety Executive (HSE) guidance for workplace first aid training.
During this course you will learn
- An in-depth understanding of mental health and wellbeing
- Common mental health conditions and how they may present
- Factors that influence mental health in the workplace
- How to recognise early warning signs and triggers
- How to approach and support someone experiencing distress
- How to respond to mental health crises confidently and safely
- How to use the MHFA Action
- Plan (ALGEE) effectively
- When and how to encourage appropriate professional support
- Understanding the impact of stigma and promoting positive conversations around mental health
- How to help create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture
This course is ideal for individuals who will act as Mental Health First Aiders or who have responsibility for supporting mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.
Your course will be delivered by one of SIGTA’s experienced first aid instructors. Each bringing real‑world emergency‑response knowledge and a supportive teaching style to help you build confidence and competence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should first aid training be refreshed?
First aid at work certificates are valid for 3 years and a 2 day first aid requalification / refresher course must be completed before expiry of the current certificate, or a full First Aid at work course would need to be completed.
Does first aid training include practical, hands‑on learning?
Yes. All SIGTA first aid courses include practical, supervised exercises. Learners practise core first aid skills in a supportive environment to build confidence, competence and the ability to act calmly in real‑world situations.
Who are SIGTA first aid courses suitable for?
SIGTA first aid courses are suitable for employees who may need to respond to illness, injury or emergency situations in the workplace. Courses are designed for a wide range of environments, from low‑risk offices to higher‑risk settings such as manufacturing, engineering and childcare.
Do I need previous first aid experience?
No previous first aid experience is required for most SIGTA first aid courses. Training is structured, practical and suitable for learners of all confidence levels. Some courses are designed as refreshers or requalification programmes, and this will be clearly stated in the course description.
Are SIGTA first aid courses recognised and compliant?
Yes. SIGTA first aid training is delivered in line with recognised workplace first aid principles and expectations. Courses are designed to help employers meet their health and safety responsibilities and ensure first aid provision is appropriate for workplace risk.
First Aid Training Built on Nationally Recognised Standards
All SIGTA First Aid courses are aligned with the nationally accepted first aid framework. Our instructors follow guidance set by leading authorities and ensure learners gain the skills and confidence needed to respond effectively in real‑life emergencies.
Why Choose SIGTA
First Aid Training Near You
SIGTA provides professional First Aid at Work training across the South East and UK, with easy‑access venues and onsite training options for employers.
Trusted Provider
We deliver reliable, compliant first aid training that meets workplace safety standards, ensuring your team is equipped with practical, up‑to‑date skills.
Aligned to National Standards
Our First Aid at Work courses follow nationally recognised guidance, giving learners the confidence and competence to respond effectively in real emergencies.
Our Commitment to Quality
SIGTA upholds strict quality standards across all training, with ongoing instructor development and continuous course evaluation to ensure reliable, high-quality first aid training you can trust.
Related Courses
SIGTA’s Paediatric First Aid (Child & Infant) course provides essential, practical training for anyone responsible for caring for babies and children.
SIGTA’s Mental Health Awareness (MHFA Half‑Day) course provides a practical introduction to understanding mental health in the workplace, delivered by a Mental Health First Aid England accredited tutor using official materials and certification.
SIGTA’s Defibrillator (AED) Training & CPR Awareness course provides practical, confidence building instruction in recognising cardiac arrest and using an Automated External Defibrillator safely and effectively.
SIGTA’s Catastrophic Bleeding & Trauma First Aid course equips learners with the skills and confidence needed to respond effectively to life-threatening bleeding and traumatic incidents.
SIGTA’s Annual First Aid Update course helps trained First Aiders maintain confidence and competence in the essential skills needed to respond effectively in workplace emergencies.
SIGTA’s Emergency First Aid at Work course provides essential, practical life‑saving skills for responding to workplace emergencies.
Refresh and update your first aid skills with this practical and engaging requalification course, designed for existing First Aid at Work certificate holders who need to renew their qualification.
SIGTA’s First Aid at Work course provides hands-on training that prepares you to recognise injuries and illnesses, deliver essential first aid, and support colleagues until professional help arrives.
SIGTA is a not for profit organisation
“Working with schools, youth organisations and local employers to increase participation in apprenticeships, we are committed to promoting and delivering high quality training programmes.”
Alison Foxwell, CEO
Our First Aid Course Training Centre in Sussex
SIGTA’s primary training centre in Shoreham-by-Sea provides a modern, well-equipped environment for practical first aid learning.
With dedicated training spaces, demonstration areas and onsite support, learners experience realistic scenarios and structured guidance.