1. Some providers recommend a Mental Health First Aider and Champion refresher and recertification regime which is similar to Physical First Aid. This includes attending a half day Refresher course every year and re-attending a full training course every 3 years. Click here to see Refresher training course details.
2. The minimum standard recommended by MHFA England is that First Aiders and Champions attend a Refresher course every 3 years to renew skills and to update knowledge and practice. This is consistent with recommendations from MHFA organisations in other countries such as Australia and Canada.
3. Work Wellness’ practice experience is that:
- If you are a practicing First Aider or Champion then attending a Refresher course every 3 years is just about right. We have not seen course content change significantly over the last 3 years, so there’s not much new to learn.
- If you are inactive and want to start practicing then there’s a lot you will have forgotten. As a minimum, you should attend a Refresher course and also work through your original course manual before you start practicing.
- If you are either of the above but have any doubts about your confidence and proficiency then also consider Work Wellness Mental Health First Aider Support.
Footnote:
As we briefly touched upon Physical First Aid, you might be wondering how similar or different the recertification requirements are compared to Mental Health First Aid?
Whilst certification for both Mental Health and Physical First Aid lasts for 3 years, the obligations for Physical First Aid are considerably stronger.
- Physical First Aid is a legal requirement and recommendations originate from the Health and Safety Executive. The HSE “strongly recommend” that Physical First Aiders:
- Attend a half day Refresher course every year.
- Attend a two day recertification course, at least ninety days prior to expiry.
- Re-attend the full three day course and examination if certification has lapsed by more than thirty days.
- Mental Health First Aid is not a legal requirement; MHFA organisations are commercial entities and their recommendations are entirely discretionary. However, we believe it is only a matter of time until some form of employer provision for Mental Health First Aid is built into the health and safety legal framework.
