Our Trust recently hosted a Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training course across both Prior and Stockton sites, delivered in partnership with Emilia Soulsby, Network Development Manager for the Child Health and Wellbeing Network at the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board.
The half-day course has proven highly successful, with 45 students and three staff members completing the training and receiving their certificates. 45 students and 3 staff across our Stockton and Prior sites successfully completed the programme.
Led by Emilia Soulsby, participants engaged in an introductory course designed to enhance their understanding of young people’s mental health challenges and support mechanisms
“This training programme exemplifies our commitment to supporting the holistic development of our students and staff,” says Adele Holmes, Trust Mental Health Lead. “It directly aligns with our strategic pillars of health and wellbeing, whilst preparing our students for future employment opportunities.”
The globally recognised programme, which carries official NHS certification, explores crucial areas including understanding mental health influences in young people, recognising signs and symptoms of mental ill health, developing effective coping mechanisms, and learning appropriate response strategies.
This MHFA England course, delivered by qualified NHS instructors, is specifically designed for those working with or supporting young people aged 8 to 18. Research has demonstrated that participation in MHFA training programmes significantly increases mental health awareness and literacy, reduces stigma surrounding mental health challenges, improves confidence in addressing mental health concerns, and enhances the ability to provide early intervention support.
The training provides participants with valuable additions to their CVs and personal statements, alongside practical skills that will benefit them in both their academic journey and future careers. This initiative exemplifies our Trust’s commitment to maximising outcomes and opportunities for all learners whilst removing barriers to achievement. It reflects our broader mission to promote positive wellbeing across our educational community and prepare students for success in all aspects of their lives.
Staff who attended the course stated they felt inspired by the course and have gone on to complete the 2 day YMHFA certification and are now currently studying a counselling skills course – all supported by the Trust to ensure our student facing workforce have the skill set to meet our students needs.
Adele Holmes also commented that “through the Colleges ongoing programme of wellbeing events, and the soon to be launched Mental Health Strategy we are actively supporting our strategic objectives of improving life chances for young people in our region whilst building partnerships that promote economic prosperity and social well-being across our community. The skills gained through this training contribute to our focus on ensuring positive destinations for each of our young people, enhancing their preparedness for future opportunities and breaking cycles of stigma around mental health”.
