Mental health touches all of us — often when we least expect it and with around 1 in 4 adults in the UK experiencing a mental health condition each year, and many more facing anxiety or depression at work or in daily life, the need for compassion, awareness and support has never been greater.
Our Level 1 Award doesn’t turn you into a therapist — what it does do is give you the knowledge and confidence to recognise when someone might be struggling, start a caring conversation, and know how to guide them towards professional support.
What you’ll learn
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Recognise a variety of common mental health conditions and signs of stress or distress
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Start a supportive, non-judgemental conversation with someone who may be struggling
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Offer reassurance and compassionate support in the moment
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Understand when and how to signpost someone to professional help or resources
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Learn basic strategies to manage stress — both for others and yourself
This qualification is regulated and awarded by First Aid Awards (FAA), fully accredited and aligned with recognised frameworks in the UK.
Who this course is for
This course is ideal for:
- Anyone working with people, children or vulnerable groups
- Individuals who simply want to be better equipped to support friends, family or colleagues
- Teachers, school staff or club organisers
- Managers, Supervisors HR or team leads
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Swim teachers, tutors and coaches
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Leisure-centre staff, reception or admin teams
Why it matters
Mental health conditions are often hidden — people may suffer in silence out of fear, stigma, or uncertainty. By gaining this qualification, you become part of the change: someone who notices, someone who cares, someone who can offer help.
What it does not do
You will not be diagnosing or treating any mental health condition — that remains the role of qualified mental health professionals. This course provides awareness, skills, and supportive knowledge.
FAA Level 1 Award in Awareness of First Aid in Mental Health
Theory online 10th May 2026
1pm - 5pm on Zoom.
Tutor- Helen Bull - The Swimming Unicorn
Assessment on this qualification includes the following:
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Meeting the contact hours by attending all the dates and times
To access this course you will need the following:
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A computer, laptop, tablet or phone with functioning mic and camera to join Zoom for theory along with Nearpod and our interactive games (no prior download needed).
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A computer, laptop, tablet or phone, and gmail account to access the google classroom where all pre course paperwork and comms will take place.
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Pen, paper, notepad as needed.
Please contact lynn@theswimsurgery.co.uk should you need to discuss your access to learning or reasonable adjustments needed. We are here to support you before, during and after your course.
Pre-requesites:
- Be at least 14 years old
- It is recommended that learners hold a minimum of level 1 in literacy or equivalent to undertake this qualification.
Email our Course Administration Manager helen@theswimsurgery.co.uk for any questions or queries.
Payment plans:
We are afraid payment plans are not available for this course however you can reserve a place for a non returnable deposit and pay the balance before the day. Contact jeremy@theswimsurgery.co.uk