Mental Health First Aid at Littlebourne

What is Mental Health First Aid? 

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is internationally recognised training, designed to teach people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis. In the same way as learning physical first aid, MHFA teaches people how to recognise those crucial warning signs of mental ill health and feel confident to guide someone to appropriate support. 

The Role of Mental Health First Aiders

The role of a Mental Health First Aider is to be a point of contact for any member of our school community who is experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress.

This interaction could range from having an initial conversation through to supporting the person to get appropriate help. As well as in a crisis, Mental Health First Aiders are valuable in providing early intervention help for someone who may be developing a mental health issue.

Mental Health First Aiders are not trained to be therapists or psychiatrists but they can offer initial support through non-judgemental listening and guidance.

Mental Health First Aid at Littlebourne

At Littlebourne all of our school community take responsibility for empowering positive mental health and wellbeing and all school staff oversee the Mental Health and Wellbeing of our children. When children need access to help they will seek this support from trusted adults in our community.

When children and members of our school community need further support we utilise our school Mental Health First Aider, Mrs McLean. 

Mrs McLean has completed both the Adult and the Youth Mental Health First Aid qualifications and is available via the school office or email directly on mcleanc@littlebourne.kent.sch.uk.

More information about Mental Health First Aid can be found on their website 

Mental Health First Aid England

Some useful resources are also included on their website

Mental Health First Aid Resources