Youth Mental Health First Aid

Youth Mental Health First Aiders develop the skills to spot the signs of a young person experiencing poor mental health, gain the confidence to start a conversation (first aid) and offer support early on. 

This two-day course provides an in-depth understanding of specific mental health issues and is delivered in four manageable chunks: 

  • What is mental health? 
  • Depression and anxiety 
  • Suicide and psychosis 
  • Self-harm and eating disorders 

 It focuses on the issues faced by young people today, such as cyberbullying and substance misuse, and teaches how to promote protective factors and good parenting. Completing the two-day course qualifies you as a Youth Mental Health First Aider.

Training Offer 

As part of the Resilient Schools Universal Programme, we are pleased to offer FREE 2-day Youth Mental Health First Aid training to all schools in Barnet. Training is delivered face-to-face at a local venue. The course is accredited by MHFA England. 

The following training dates are available for the 2026-27 academic year:  

  • Dates & Location TBC  

To book your place, email kevin@bdld.org.uk from Big Dog Little Dog, who will deliver the sessions.

We ask that only 1 member of staff per school register for the training however if a school volunteers hosts the training, you can book 2 members from your school.

For further information, email jayne.abbott@barnet.gov.uk

Free CPD for Mental Health First Aiders 

In the 25/26 academic year, the Resilient Schools Programme launched a new FREE half-day online refresher course and CPD offer for Barnet CYP professionals who have undertaken the Youth Mental Health First Aid training within the last 3 years. 

The refresher training renews your YMHFA certification for another 3 years and gives you access to the NEW Mental Health First Aider app.

The following training dates are available for the 2026-27 academic year from 9.30am to 1.30pm:

  • Dates TBC

To book your place, email kevin@bdld.org.uk from Big Dog Little Dog, who will deliver the sessions.

Launch of our YMHFA Forum

Our offer now includes exclusive access to our NEW YMHFA Forum, which acts as a community of practice designed to support professionals working with CYP.

What you’ll gain:

  • Termly webinars on emerging challenges and key topics on youth mental health chosen by you through regular voting
  • Peer support & networking: Connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences and learn from each other
  • Resource sharing: Access to tools, guidance and best practices
  • Ongoing learning: Stay up-to-date with the latest developments and approaches

Save the date to attend our online lunchtime webinars at 1pm: 

  • Dates TBC

School Resources  

Training courses