Participation and Involvement in Mental Health (accredited course)
This accredited course is for induction level staff, campaigners and volunteers or anyone who has an interest in mental health. It develops the work of people who have some experience of mental illness and who may want to draw on their direct experiences.
The course is accredited by Middlesex University and successful candidates receive 30 CAT points (through the Credit Accumulation and Transfer scheme) either at Higher education levels HE4 or HE6 which can be used to build up credits towards a higher education certificate, diploma or degree by agreement with a University. The course is designed to be accessible for both those without formal education as well as for those with existing higher level qualifications. (Assignments at HE4 level can be presented in formats other than writing e.g. recorded or scribed)
Core topics currently covered by the course include speaking in public (e.g. meetings or training), principles of good teaching and learning, facilitation and presentation skills, planning, delivering and evaluating a learning project, and issues faced by people with experience of mental health problems - such as stigma and discrimination. It is also possible to develop additional bespoke modules for particular organisational needs.
presenting the message about the effects of stigma to those who will influence others is incredibly worthwhile, and completing the course has helped me realise and value my own contribution
Lindsey (course graduate)
working towards accreditation gave me an opportunity to focus on a particular piece of work and reflect upon my own approach and practice
A supporter working in User Involvement
