All mental health training is not created equal. Some training can leave you out of pocket and no wiser.
Check Accreditation First
First check the course has been accredited by a recognised body recognised within the Mental Health arena, i.e. Mental Health First Aid England, Royal Society for Public Health, etc. The content of an accredited course has been rigorously assessed to ensure the highest quality and that upon completion the holder can produce a recognised certificate. It is also wise to check that the course is recognised by your employer and/or your colleagues.
Match the Length to Your Needs
Some mental health and mental training programs are 2 hour awareness sessions and will be suitable for the whole team to attend, whilst others are 2 day Mental Health First Aider programs that require a longer more structured program of study to gain the qualification to be a designated first aider for mental health.
Check Who the Course Is Designed For
Some training programs are geared to managers, others to the front line staff and HR. Look at the scenarios used in examples to ensure these are relevant to your role within your organisation and industry.
Know Your Legal Starting Point
Understanding your legal responsibilities in terms of the workplace mental health of your employees, will help you establish what level of mental health training that you and your organisation need, before looking around for a supplier.
Look Into the Trainer’s Background
Also, check whether the trainer has a clinical or occupational health background and whether they deliver training on a regular basis as opposed to only occasionally. A trainer who delivers training regularly and works with organisations similar to your own will use examples that actually land with you as opposed to reading from a script. If you are looking for Mental Health Training Courses Milton Keynes, see www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/milton-keynes/.
A little research prior to booking your course can save you from hours of disappointment.