What Is the Mental Health First Aid Course?
The Mental Health First Aid Course in Kirkwall is a comprehensive two-day training programme designed to help learners develop the knowledge and confidence needed to support mental wellbeing. Through interactive learning and guided activities, participants will learn how to recognise early warning signs of mental health challenges, approach sensitive conversations with care, respond appropriately in crisis situations, and guide individuals toward professional support when necessary.
Delivered by accredited instructors, the course combines practical exercises with real-world scenarios to ensure the training remains engaging and relevant. By the end of the programme, learners will understand how to listen without judgement, set appropriate boundaries, and support others while maintaining their own wellbeing.
Upon completion, participants receive a nationally recognised certificate confirming their ability to promote positive mental health and support others in a responsible and informed way.
✅ Mental Health First Aiders play an important role in creating workplaces and communities where open conversations about mental wellbeing are encouraged and supported.
Who Should Take the Mental Health First Aid Course in Kirkwall?
The Mental Health First Aid course is suitable for individuals and organisations looking to strengthen awareness around mental wellbeing and build supportive environments. It is particularly valuable for:
- Line managers, team leaders, and supervisors
- HR professionals and wellbeing champions
- Staff working directly with the public in retail, hospitality, or service sectors
- Volunteers, charities, and community organisations
- Anyone who wants to better support colleagues, friends, or family members
What Will You Learn?
During the two-day Mental Health First Aid course, you will develop practical skills and confidence to support others experiencing mental health difficulties. The training focuses on the following key areas:
Recognising and Understanding Mental Health
- Identify early warning signs of common mental health conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression
- Understand how mental wellbeing influences workplace performance, relationships, and culture
- Explore how social, environmental, and cultural factors can impact mental health
Responding in a Crisis
- Apply a structured approach to offering immediate support during a mental health crisis
- Respond appropriately to situations such as panic attacks or suicidal thoughts
- Understand when and how to refer someone to professional services
Conversations and Boundaries
- Develop active listening techniques and practise supportive communication
- Approach difficult discussions with empathy and reassurance
- Maintain clear personal and professional boundaries while offering support
Signposting and Self-Care
- Guide individuals toward appropriate community or professional support services
- Apply safeguarding principles and respect confidentiality
- Strengthen your own resilience and learn strategies for maintaining personal wellbeing
How Is the Course Delivered?
The Mental Health First Aid course is delivered over two full days, with each day lasting approximately six to seven hours. To suit different learning preferences, we offer flexible delivery formats:
- Face-to-face sessions at a central Kirkwall venue, where learners benefit from interactive discussions and practical exercises.
- A blended learning option combining self-paced online study with scheduled live workshops to reinforce key learning points.
Both formats are taught by accredited instructors and lead to the same nationally recognised certificate upon successful completion.
Entry Requirements
The Mental Health First Aid Course has no specific academic entry requirements and is open to learners aged 16 and above. Participants should be willing to engage in group discussions, take part in practical exercises, and have a good understanding of English to follow the course content and contribute effectively.
What to Expect
This course covers important but sometimes sensitive topics, including discussions around self-harm and suicide. Your wellbeing is always prioritised, and you may step out or take breaks if any part of the content becomes overwhelming. If you are booking on behalf of someone else, please ensure they feel comfortable participating in this type of discussion-based training.
If you are unsure whether the course is suitable for you, our team is happy to discuss it confidentially before you make a booking.
How Is the Course Assessed?
Assessment during the Mental Health First Aid Course in Kirkwall is continuous and based on participation throughout the training. Learners take part in group discussions, practical exercises, and scenario-based activities. There are no formal written exams; instead, the focus is on developing confidence and demonstrating the ability to apply the tools and techniques covered during the course. Short knowledge checks may also be included to reinforce learning.
Will I Get a Recognised Certificate?
Yes. After successfully completing the Mental Health First Aid Course, you will receive an accredited certificate recognised by employers and organisations across the UK. This certification confirms that you have gained the knowledge and practical understanding required to support mental well-being responsibly.
The certificate is valid for three years. Refresher training is recommended once this period ends to keep your knowledge up to date. Holding this qualification reflects your commitment to creating healthier workplaces and helping reduce the stigma around mental health.
🎯 Safe Boundaries, Safeguarding & Continuing Support
This course equips you with the skills to listen with empathy, provide reassurance, and guide people toward appropriate help — it does not qualify you to diagnose conditions or provide therapy. You will learn how to maintain safe boundaries, recognise when concerns should be escalated to professional services, and handle sensitive information responsibly. We also provide ongoing resources and guidance so you know where to access additional support after the course.
On-Site Mental Health First Aid in Kirkwall (For Teams)
Hosting Mental Health First Aid training on-site in Kirkwall allows organisations to provide consistent, cost-effective wellbeing training for their teams while ensuring the content reflects their workplace environment.
- ✓Develop a consistent wellbeing approach across your organisation
- ✓Tailor discussions and case studies to suit your workplace environment
- ✓Schedule sessions at times that minimise disruption to daily operations
- ✓Train teams together to encourage shared responsibility and collaboration
- ✓Reduce costs compared to booking individual training places
Kirkwall Location & Areas We Welcome Learners From
Our Mental Health First Aid training takes place at a centrally located venue in Kirkwall, making it convenient for learners travelling from across the Orkney Mainland. The venue can be reached easily by local transport or car, with nearby parking available.
We regularly welcome learners from surrounding communities including St Ola, Finstown, Stenness, Orphir, and Tankerness. Whether you are based in Kirkwall or travelling from neighbouring areas, the course is designed to be accessible for individuals and organisations across the region.
Other First Aid Courses in Kirkwall
In addition to the Mental Health First Aid Course, learners in Kirkwall can access a range of accredited First Aid Courses in Kirkwall. Popular options include Paediatric First Aid, the one-day Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW), and the full three-day First Aid at Work (FAW). View upcoming schedules and venues through our Kirkwall training hub.
Why Book With Us?
When you choose Hurak for your Mental Health First Aid training in Kirkwall, you benefit from expert instruction, flexible learning options, and transparent pricing. Here’s why learners choose us:
- ✓Accredited certificates recognised across the UK
- ✓Dedicated learner support before, during, and after training
- ✓Flexible payment options including Klarna instalments
- ✓Convenient Kirkwall venue with options for on-site training
- ✓Clear pricing with no hidden fees
- ✓Over 100,000 learners trained nationwide
