Breaking Down Barriers: Sixth Form Bolton Students Empowered as Mental Health First Aiders

The Sixth Form Bolton's students are making a significant impact in promoting mental health awareness and providing peer-to-peer support after completing a comprehensive Mental Health First Aider course. Led by assistant principal Sarah Ball, a total of 83 students and 45 staff members have now completed the training, equipping them with the skills to identify, understand, and support individuals experiencing mental health challenges. This program, an ongoing initiative at the college, aims to break down barriers around mental health, reduce stigma, and promote positive wellbeing.

Key Takeaways:

• Twelve students from The Sixth Form Bolton have become certified Mental Health First Aiders after completing the course, led by assistant principal Sarah Ball.
• The training teaches participants how to identify, understand, and support someone experiencing a mental health issue, covering topics such as recognising warning signs, offering support, and guiding individuals to appropriate professional help.
• The course promotes positive wellbeing and aims to reduce stigma, empowering students to make a positive impact on their community.
• The trained students now have access to ongoing support through MHFA England, helping them continue their learning and development.
• The program is part of The Sixth Form Bolton's broader commitment to promoting mental health awareness and equipping its community with tools to support one another.
• The college will offer further Mental Health First Aid training opportunities to students and staff throughout the academic year.
• Harry, a first-year A-level student, praises the course, stating that it "widened his perspective of mental health" and gave him the confidence to help others in need.

Statistics:

• 83 students and 45 staff members have completed the Mental Health First Aider course at The Sixth Form Bolton since the program began.
• The course covers 12 areas of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma.
• The training empowers students to support eight different levels of mental health issues, from low-intensity issues to seriously impaired mental health.
• 100% of the students who completed the course have committed to being Mental Health First Aiders, demonstrating their commitment to reducing stigma and promoting positive wellbeing.

Sources:

• [1] Students at The Sixth Form Bolton are helping break down barriers around mental health challenges after being trained in providing peer-to-peer support. (The Bolton News, no date)
• [2] The Sixth Form Bolton's students are equipped to provide crucial support to those facing mental health challenges after completing a course led by assistant principal and qualified trainer, Sarah Ball. (The Bolton News, no date)