AoC Sport to Deliver Mental Health First Aid Training

AoC Sport are delivering two free online mental health training courses this term, accredited by Mental Health First Aid England.

One in four people will experience a mental health problem each year, with 50% of mental health problems established by age 14 and 75% by age 24. Research by the New Economics Foundation has shown that being active is one of the five ways to wellbeing.

AoC Sport feels it is important to upskill college sports staff around mental health so they can support students with or at risk of mental health problems to be active and to support their own mental health and wellbeing. AoC Sport has already trained 200 FE staff members from across the country and want to continue to improve the knowledge and understanding of college sport staff.

The two courses are free of charge to AoC Sport members who can reserve one place per college.

Further details of the courses can be found below. To book your place or ask any questions please email Kirstie.Hickson@aoc.co.uk stating which course you would like to attend or call Kirstie on 07471952592.

Youth Mental Health Awareness – Thursday 10 February 1:30-4:30pm – Online

This introductory three hour session raises awareness of young people’s mental health. It covers:

• Some of the common mental health issues affecting young people, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders and psychosis
• Skills to work more effectively with young people living with mental health issues
• Ways to support young people with a mental health issue and relate to their experiences.

Youth Mental Health Champion Course – Tuesday 1 March 9:15am-12pm and Thursday 3 March 10am-12:20pm – Online

Delegates must attend both sessions and complete individual online learning via the MHFA England portal prior to each session. The individual learning will take up to 1.5 hours per session.

This course trains you as a Youth MHFA Champion, giving you:

• An understanding of common mental health issues and how they can affect young people
• Ability to spot signs of mental ill health in young people and guide them to a place of support
• Knowledge and confidence to advocate for mental health awareness
• Skills to support positive wellbeing.