Dear all,

Directorate of Overseas Bases have funded a Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course provided by Mental Health First Aid England for Civil Servants and Military personnel who would like to learn how to identify, understand and help someone who may be experiencing a mental health issue.

MHFA won’t teach you to be a therapist, but it will teach you to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis. You will learn to recognise the warning signs of mental ill health and develop the skills and confidence to approach and support someone while keeping yourself safe.

You’ll also learn how to empower someone to access the support they might need for recovery or successful management of symptoms. This could include self-help books or websites, accessing therapy services through their GP, their school or place of work, online self-referral, support groups, and more.

What’s more, you’ll gain an understanding of how to support positive wellbeing and tackle stigma in the world around you.

Course structure

Delivered over four 2.5 hour online live training sessions, spread across two weeks, with self-learning activities in between.

Visit the course overview page for detailed information.

Course dates and times

Tuesday 01 March 22

Wednesday 02 March 22

Tuesday 08 March 22

Wednesday 09 March 22

13:00-15:30 GMT all days

How to apply

To apply you must complete a short application form* that will be considered by the DOB HR team. Spaces are limited to 16 to ensure learners are fully supported by the instructor. Due to limited spaces, DOB HR team will ensure each unit has a balanced opportunity to have access to qualified MHFAs at their unit. Closing date to be considered is 18:00 on Friday 21 Jan 22. The DOB HR team will aim to respond to applicants by COP Friday 04 Feb 22.

If demand for the course is high, another course may be scheduled soon after.

DOB HQ are also seeking Civil Servants or Military personnel who upon completion of this course would be interested in becoming qualified as a MHFA Instructor to qualify them to deliver MHFA courses at their units. There is a question on the application form that asks if this might be of interest to you. Detailed information on the role of a MHFA Instructor can be found here.

*Refresh the page if the form does not load.

If you have any questions please get in touch.

Kind regards

Ashley

I have written this at a time convenient to me. Please only reply at a time convenient to you.

Ashley Concannon Assoc CIPD (Pronouns: she/her)| D DirOB HLB, HR & Workforce Engagement Officer

Email: ashley.concannon100@mod.gov.uk

Skype: 0300 159 5086

Directorate of Overseas Bases | UKStratCom | Northwood HQ, Sandy Lane, Northwood, HA6 3HP