level 3 courses

Who can apply

Or

Not eligible?

Take a look at the Level 2 Mental Health courses we offer instead.

Level 3 Course in Understanding Mental Health

funded by uk government

Duration

20-22 weeks

Funding

100% online

About this free online course

This free online Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Mental Health is designed to increase awareness of mental health issues and the importance of mental well-being.

You will build a knowledge base that can be used in various occupational roles, gaining an understanding of the skills needed to work in mental health services, the importance of addressing mental health problems, and how legislation and publicity are changing attitudes towards those seeking treatment.

Tutor Support

Learn in confidence with support from a qualified tutor throughout the course.

Development

Join thousands of learners in growing both professionally and personally.

1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year in England.​

Source: Mind

Course content

Your free course is split into manageable units.

There are no exams. You will complete assessment questions based on the skills and knowledge you have gained from the course units below…

Understanding the context of mental health and wellbeing

  • Section 1 – Understand the range of current legislation that applies to mental health and how it has changed over time
  • Section 2 – Understand the range of attitudes and perceptions of mental ill health
  • Section 3 – Understand the current pattern and range of services for mental health problems and how these have evolved

Promotion of mental health and wellbeing

  • Section 1 – Understand mental health and wellbeing in the different stages of life
  • Section 2 – Understand how to support mental health and wellbeing

Mental health problems: associated issues and consequences

  • Section 1 – Understand how mental health problems have social consequences for the individual, their family and society as a whole
  • Section 2 – Understand the use/misuse of substances and alcohol in the context of mental health problems (dual diagnosis)
  • Section 3 – Understand mental health problems in the context of offending and the criminal justice system
  • Section 4 – Understand suicide and the prevention of suicide
  • Section 5 – Understand self harm

Understanding mental ill health

  • Section 1 – Understand a range of mental health conditions
  • Section 2 – Understand the treatments and interventions available for a range of mental health problems
  • Section 3 – Understand care planning in mental health services

Working in mental health

  • Section 1 – Know how to develop the skills, knowledge, and attributes necessary for working in mental health services
  • Section 2 – Understand the roles and responsibilities of a care or support worker working in mental health
  • Section 3 – Understand the roles of other professionals providing mental health services
  • Section 4 – Understand how to use reflection in the development of skills, knowledge, and practice

How it works

3 simple steps to qualification…

fast track online enrolment

Fast-track online enrolment

You can begin your stress-free journey to qualification by completing the short form on this page.

Once submitted, we’ll instantly match you with a relevant training provider based on your location to complete your enrolment.

Award-winning online learning

Enjoy a flexible and engaging learning experience through an award-winning online platform with support from a qualified tutor.

You can access first-class resources, interactive case studies, and support tools. All available on any device, anytime.

Gain an accredited qualification

Your nationally recognised level 3 certificate proves you’ve developed essential new skills and in-depth knowledge. The qualification is accredited by either NCFE or TQUK, depending on your location.

It’s a powerful personal achievement that boosts confidence, enhances employability, supports CPD and opens the door to further study or career progression.

free course learners with certificates

Learner testimonials

Watch recent video testimonials from our learners…

Funded by UK Government

The level 3 certificate is available online through one of our approved training provider partners, with the specific provider depending on your location.

The course is fully funded for eligible learners in England through the Adult Skills Fund (ASF), formerly known as the Adult Education Budget (AEB), which supports adult learning and skill development across the country.

Fast-track Enrolment

Enrol online in under 10 minutes…

step 1

Check Your Eligibility

*View visa restrictions

Funding isn’t available for Skilled Worker visas, Student visas, Graduate visas, Sponsorship (skilled/seasonal) visas, or any visa with a study restriction.

If this applies, you won’t be eligible for funding.

Start Your Enrolment

FAQs

What is a mental health awareness course?

A mental health awareness course is a training program designed to educate individuals about mental health, its importance, and how to support those who may be experiencing mental health challenges.

It aims to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and provide practical knowledge and skills to promote positive mental well-being.

Is the mental health awareness course free?

The Mental Health Awareness course is free if you meet the eligibility criteria.

We connect you with learning providers that use government funding from the Education & Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and the Adult Educational Budget (AEB).

Is the qualification recognised by employers?

All of our courses are accredited by UK government-recognised awarding bodies. These include NCFE CACHE and TQUK, with whom we work closely to ensure our existing courses, and all new ones, meet approved standards of excellence and are certified as such. NCFE CACHE and TQUK are national awarding organisations that design, develops and certifies nationally recognised qualifications and awards.

All qualifications are regulated by Ofqual and are the perfect way to boost any CV.

How many free online courses can I take?

You can only take one course at a time but you can take up to 7 in one academic year.

Do I need to sit an Exam?

No, there are no exams, all courses require you to complete assessment questions based on the knowledge you have just gained from the units.

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TQUK qualifications are delivered by The Skills Network.

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