Community Mental Health First Response Training

The SPACE Community Mental Health First Response training helps organisations develop a stronger understanding of mental health while equipping staff, volunteers and teams with the confidence and practical skills to respond safely when someone is experiencing emotional distress or crisis.

Designed for non-clinical environments, this training goes beyond awareness alone. It supports people to recognise mental health challenges, understand how these may show up in everyday settings, and respond in a way that is compassionate, appropriate and safely.

The training focuses on both mental health awareness and practical first response, supporting participants to feel clearer about their role and responsibilities when supporting others.

What participants will learn

Participants will:

• Develop a clearer understanding of mental health and common mental health conditions
• Increase awareness of how mental health can affect behaviour, communication and wellbeing
• Learn to recognise signs of emotional distress and mental health crisis
• Build confidence in responding calmly and supportively in the moment
• Understand boundaries, safeguarding and ethical responsibility
• Learn how and when to signpost people to appropriate support

A key element of the training is understanding local support pathways. Participants are introduced to what mental health support is available locally, how services work and how to signpost people safely and responsibly.

Who this training is for

This training is suitable for:

• Community and voluntary organisations
• Workplaces and employers
• Customer-facing and front-of-house staff
• Managers, supervisors and team leaders
• Volunteers and peer supporters

No prior mental health training or clinical experience is required.

How the training is delivered

• 5-hour interactive training session
• Up to 40 participants
• Interactive delivery using discussion, real-world examples and practical scenarios
• Tailored to the local area and support available

Who delivers this training

This training is delivered by the founder and CEO of SPACE, a BACP registered counsellor with extensive experience in community mental health leadership, training delivery and frontline support. The course is grounded in both professional practice and real-world experience of supporting people in distress in everyday settings.

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