Free Suicide Prevention & Mental Health First Aid Training Available Across Argyll and Bute

Public Health, in partnership with Argyll & Bute HSCP, is offering a series of free training opportunities in 2025–26 designed to equip local people with vital skills to support mental health and suicide prevention in our communities.

Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)

ASIST is a two-day, interactive workshop that helps participants become more willing, ready, and able to recognise and intervene effectively when someone may be at risk of suicide. Open to anyone aged 16+ living or working in Argyll & Bute, no prior experience is needed—just a willingness to help.

Upcoming ASIST dates include:

  • Helensburgh: 17–18 September 2025, Parish Church Hall (The Bridge)

  • Dunoon: 24–25 September 2025, Dunoon Community Shed

  • Lochgilphead: 19–20 November 2025

  • Campbeltown: 14–15 January 2026

  • Oban: 25–26 March 2026

  • Isle of Mull: 20–21 May 2026

Scotland’s Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA)

SMHFA training provides practical guidance on how to support someone experiencing a mental health crisis, recognise the signs of common mental health problems, and know how to offer the right support. The two-day course includes discussions, films, and activities, and participants receive an NHS Health Scotland certificate on completion.

Upcoming SMHFA dates include:

  • Dunoon: 26–27 August 2025

  • Lochgilphead: 23–24 October 2025

  • Campbeltown: 16–17 December 2025

  • Oban: 19–20 February 2026

  • Bute: 30 April – 1 May 2026

How to Register

Both ASIST and SMHFA are free to attend. Each course runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM over two consecutive days.
To register:

  1. Create a TURAS account (if you don’t already have one).

  2. Visit the NHS Highland Public Health Zone on TURAS Learn.

  3. Select the relevant course (ASIST or SMHFA) and book your place.

📩 For more information or booking support, email: [email protected]

✨ This training is an important opportunity for third sector organisations, volunteers, and community members to gain life-saving skills. Please share within your networks to help build a stronger, more supportive Argyll and Bute.

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