Mental health concerns often develop gradually, silently, and long before someone feels able to reach out. In every organisation, there is a need for people who not only understand mental health, but who can lead, supervise and support others in responding to it.

The Level 3 Supervising First Aid for Mental Health qualification is the most extensive and in-depth award within the FAA Mental Health suite. It is designed for those who hold responsibility for overseeing mental health first aid provision, guiding colleagues, influencing workplace culture and ensuring structured, safe support.

At this level, learners gain a deeper understanding of how mental health conditions develop, the range of professional therapies available, and how to confidently apply and supervise the First Aid Action Plan for Mental Health within a team or organisation.

This is not about diagnosing or treating mental illness — it is about becoming a competent, informed leader, able to support individuals, supervise others and help embed a positive mental health culture across your workplace or community.

What you’ll learn

1. How mental health develops and the role of a mental health first aider

• Define mental health and understand the impact of stigma

• Identify factors that affect mental wellbeing

• Understand the responsibilities of a First Aider for Mental Health at supervisory level

2. How to provide advice and practical support

• Learn what advice can safely be offered

• Know when emergency services must be contacted

• Provide calm, structured support for suspected mental health concerns

3. Recognising and managing stress

• Identify signs and symptoms of stress

• Understand practical strategies to manage and reduce stress

4. The impact of substance misuse on mental health

• Understand the effects of alcohol and drug misuse

• Explore how substance misuse affects lifestyle, employment and mental wellbeing

5. Applying the First Aid Action Plan for Mental Health

• Demonstrate the full application of the First Aid Action Plan

• Confidently supervise and support others in applying it

6. Implementing a positive mental health culture

• Identify key factors that promote wellbeing in the workplace

• Learn how to implement and encourage a positive mental health culture

7. A wide range of mental health disorders and professional therapies

Gain deeper understanding of the characteristics, signs and symptoms of:
• Depression • Anxiety • PTSD • Self-harm • Suicide • Eating disorders
• Personality disorders • Bipolar disorder • Psychosis • Schizophrenia

Plus, gain insight into the support and therapies provided by healthcare professionals, enabling you to signpost individuals more effectively.

This qualification is regulated and awarded by First Aid Awards (FAA) and aligned with recognised UK frameworks.

Who this course is for

This advanced qualification is ideal for:

• Managers, supervisors, HR teams and safeguarding leads

• Mental health leads or wellbeing champions

• Senior tutors, coaches, teachers and team leaders

• Anyone responsible for supporting staff or volunteers

• Individuals progressing from Level 2 seeking a leadership-level qualification

This is the highest level of First Aid for Mental Health training offered by FAA.

Why it matters

At leadership level, mental health response is about more than recognising signs — it’s about:

• Leading mental health first aid provision

• Supporting and supervising colleagues

• Applying structured processes confidently

• Shaping a healthier, safer workplace culture

• Reducing stigma through informed action

Your role becomes the bridge between early concern and professional help.

What it does not do

You will not diagnose or treat clinical mental health conditions — that remains the role of healthcare professionals.
This course provides advanced awareness, supervisory response skills and leadership-level understanding to support and guide others safely.

FAA Level 3 Supervising First Aid for Mental Health

Theory online:

25th and 26th February 2026

9.30am - 4pm on Zoom

Tutor:

Helen Bull – The Swimming Unicorn

Assessment on this qualification includes:

• Meeting the required contact hours by attending all scheduled sessions

• Participation in course activities and assessed knowledge tasks

• Demonstrating supervisory-level understanding of the First Aid Action Plan

To access this course you will need:

• A computer, laptop, tablet or phone with a functioning microphone and camera to join Zoom

• A device and a Gmail account to access Google Classroom for pre-course paperwork and communication

• Pen, paper or notepad as needed

If you need to discuss access to learning or reasonable adjustments, please contact lynn@theswimsurgery.co.uk
We are here to support you before, during and after your course.

Pre-requisites

• Learners must be at least 16 years old

• It is recommended that learners hold a minimum of Level 2 literacy (or equivalent)

• Level 2 First Aid for Mental Health is helpful but not essential

Questions or queries?

Email our Course Administration Manager: helen@theswimsurgery.co.uk

Payment plans