What does mental health first aid training cost?
Most providers make you enquire to find out. We publish the typical ranges, so you know a fair quote when you see one.
Open courses — price per person
An open (public) course is one you book individual places on, alongside people from other organisations. Typical UK prices as of 2026:
| Course | Duration | Typical price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Adult MHFA (2 day) | 2 days (or four half-day sessions online) | £200–£325 |
| MHFA Champion (1 day) | 1 day | £125–£200 |
| Mental Health Aware (half day) | Half day (about 4 hours) | £75–£125 |
| Youth MHFA (2 day) | 2 days (or four half-day sessions online) | £200–£325 |
| MHFA Refresher (half day) | Half day (about 4 hours) | £100–£150 |
| SMHFA (Scotland) | 12 hours, usually over 2 days | £150–£250 |
| FAA regulated awards | Half day (Level 1), 1 day (Level 2) or 2 days (Level 3 supervising) | £95–£250 |
| St John Ambulance | Half day to 2 days depending on course | £150–£300 |
| i-act | 1 day (manager or non-manager versions) | £150–£250 |
Private group courses
A private course brings the trainer to your organisation (or a venue you choose, or online, just for your people). Typical all-in prices:
| Course | Typical private-group price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult MHFA (2 day) | £1,500–£2,600 | for a private course for up to 16 people, depending on location and instructor |
| MHFA Champion (1 day) | £900–£1,500 | for a private one-day course for up to 16 people |
| Mental Health Aware (half day) | £500–£900 | for a private half-day session for up to 25 people |
| Youth MHFA (2 day) | £1,500–£2,600 | for a private course for up to 16 people |
| MHFA Refresher (half day) | £600–£1,000 | for a private refresher for up to 16 people |
| SMHFA (Scotland) | £1,200–£2,200 | for a private course for up to 16 people |
| FAA regulated awards | £700–£1,800 | for private delivery, depending on level and group size |
| i-act | £1,200–£2,000 | for private one-day delivery for up to 16 people |
Ranges reflect what accredited independent trainers and providers typically charge across the UK. Prices vary with location, venue, group size and what's included — treat these as a sense-check, not a quote. Travel expenses may be added for venues far from the trainer's base.
Pricing questions
Why do prices vary so much between trainers?
Location, venue costs, instructor experience and what’s included (manuals, lunch, follow-up support) all move the price. A higher price sometimes reflects a more experienced instructor or better venue — but not always, which is exactly why we publish typical ranges.
Are online courses cheaper?
Usually a little, since there’s no venue or catering — but the instructor time is the same, so don’t expect a dramatic discount. Expect online open-course places towards the lower-middle of each range.
When does a private group course become better value?
As a rule of thumb, from around 8 people a private course costs less per head than buying open-course places — and you get to tailor timing, venue and examples to your organisation. Maximum group sizes are typically 16 for certificated courses.
Is any funding available?
Sometimes. Local authorities, NHS integrated care boards and combined authorities periodically fund or subsidise places, particularly in Scotland and for community and voluntary organisations. It’s always worth asking us — we’ll flag anything current for your area.
Want an exact price?
Tell us your course, location and group size and we'll come back with a firm quote from an accredited trainer — usually within one working day.