Resources for Mental Health Trainers

Hampshire, Portsmouth, Southampton and Isle of Wight Councils have commissioned Havant and East Hants Mind to produce a quality framework which provides tools, tips and updates for Mental Health Trainers to ensure there is a consistent approach to the quality control and delivery of the following courses:

Mental Health First Aid

Suicide First Aid

Connect 5

Welcome Video

This is a free resource including general updates and recaps, opportunities to attend Community of Practice update events and access to discussion boards. If you have any questions, suggestions or thoughts on the content please email the Havant and East Hants Mind Training Team

Community of Practice

Keeping your accreditation up to date

Good Practice - Tips and Tools

Trainer resources

Understanding the three Connect 5 trainer hats

5 Ways Posters

Reflective practice models

Establish your delegates’ needs

Encouraging delegates to introduce themselves at the beginning of each course, highlighting their roles within their workplace and sharing their knowledge of the subject matter, is a valuable practice. This approach allows trainers to tailor the training course to the appropriate level and ensure relevance to all delegates’ needs. By understanding the diverse backgrounds and expertise of the participants, trainers can effectively engage them and deliver content that meets their specific

Highlight goals and objectives

It is essential to dedicate time at the beginning of each training course to highlight the goals and objectives. By spending 10 minutes to outline the main aims of the course or workshop, trainers can effectively set expectations and provide instant structure to the training session. This practice ensures that participants understand the purpose of the course and what they can expect to achieve, ultimately enhancing their learning experience and engagement

Interpreting non verbal communication

Mastering the skill of interpreting non-verbal cues from delegates can significantly enhance training effectiveness. Trainers who adopt a “sense and respond” approach are better equipped to understand the needs of their audience and adjust their training delivery accordingly. If delegates appear confused, tired, or bored, it is crucial to take proactive steps to address the issue promptly. This may involve taking a break, increasing engagement, or initiating dialogue to rectify the situation and ensure optimal learning outcomes for all participants.

Maintain the energy!

It is important to acknowledge that training can be physically and mentally tiring for both trainers and delegates. If there are signs of tiredness from the audience, it is advisable to recommend a quick break to allow participants to recharge. By creating a dynamic and interactive learning environment, trainers can help combat fatigue and keep participants actively engaged throughout the training session.

Don’t be afraid to repeat

Repetition can be a powerful tool in emphasising key points throughout a course. Don’t hesitate to repeat important information on multiple occasions to ensure that it resonates with participants. It can be beneficial to explicitly announce your intention to repeat certain points to further highlight their significance.

Allow for a little humour!

Integrating light-hearted moments into a training session can help dispel tensions and create a more engaging and positive learning environment. However, it is important to strike a balance and ensure that these moments do not belittle the content or the purpose of the training course. By incorporating humour thoughtfully and respectfully, trainers can foster a relaxed atmosphere while maintaining the focus on the course objectives and content. This approach can enhance participant engagement and overall learning outcomes.

The environment needs to be suitable

Creating a stimulating environment with good lighting and ambience is crucial for a positive learning experience. Avoiding stuffy, overcrowded rooms with poor ventilation can significantly impact participants’ engagement and comfort levels. Opting for a venue that provides ample natural light, fresh air, and a pleasant atmosphere can enhance the learning environment and make the training session more enjoyable for delegates. A well-chosen venue contributes to better learning outcomes and overall satisfaction among participants.

Pace yourself

Controlling the pace of each training course is crucial for a successful delivery. Rushing through slides too quickly or finishing significantly early can lead to disengagement from delegates. Similarly, running out of time with a substantial amount of content remaining can result in incomplete learning objectives. It is advisable to be well-versed in the course content and plan approximately how many slides to cover per hour to track progress effectively. Being prepared to adjust the pace subtly throughout the course allows for a balanced distribution of content within the allocated time frame, ensuring a productive and engaging training experience for all participants.

Avoid sitting down through the entire course

Standing in front of your audience during a course can convey confidence, leadership, and dynamism. While it may not always be feasible to stand throughout the entire session, incorporating moments of standing can positively impact how you are perceived by your audience.

Admit when you don’t know an answer

It is important to acknowledge that as a trainer, there may be instances where you encounter questions for which you do not have the right answer. In such situations, it is best to openly admit when you are unsure, being transparent about your limitations and committing to finding the correct information or seeking assistance, you can maintain credibility and trust with your delegates.

Try and remember their names

Addressing delegates by their first names can indeed foster a stronger bond between the trainer and the group. In situations where delegates do not have name badges, creating a quick sketch of the room layout and noting down names next to each delegate’s seating position can be a helpful strategy. This allows the trainer to easily refer to the sketch during the session, ensuring personalized interactions and enhancing engagement with the participants.

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