How has safeguarding been considered in the new Youth MHFA course?

Safeguarding has been central to the development of the new Youth MHFA course. We partnered with the British Youth Council, who supported the recruitment of our co-design group and provided safeguarding advice throughout the process. A consultant from the council worked closely with us, helping to write and film the Youth MHFA conversation films and managing the collection of lived experiences from young people. 

To ensure the course is practical and relevant, we consulted National Trainers with experience delivering in school settings. Their input informed safeguarding elements across the course, including the creation of the ‘What support is available in my setting?’ activity, which encourages learners to identify safeguarding supports within their own settings. 

Additionally, two safeguarding experts contributed to writing and reviewing the safeguarding content in ‘Implementing Youth MHFAiders: A guide for schools, colleges, and youth settings’. Our co-design group also played a key role, sharing their perspectives on appropriate and inappropriate boundaries for Youth MHFAiders to ensure the course is reflective of young people’s voices and needs.