The certificate is in the drawer and the manual is on the shelf. So what happens next? This is the bit most people wonder about but rarely ask, so let's talk about it.

The first week

You'll probably feel a mix of confidence and "what if I get it wrong?" Both are normal. Most first aiders tell me they start noticing things they'd missed before, like a colleague who has gone quiet or someone who seems a bit flat.

What you actually do

Mostly, you listen. You don't diagnose, fix or have all the answers. Your job is to notice, start a conversation, listen without judgement and point someone towards the right support. That's a very doable thing on a Tuesday afternoon.

Keeping it alive

• Check in with other first aiders in your organisation every so often
• See about creating a team with a team lead that can make sure the first aiding 'work' is balanced, can share ideas about promoting well-being, can share resources and non-confidential information.
• Dip into the MHFA England community for ideas or visit the resources page for materials to use at work.
• Reread your manual when something comes up, because that's what it's for
• Book a refresher with me after 3 years

Looking after yourself

Supporting others is rewarding, and it can also be tiring. Know your limits, share the load and keep up the things that recharge you. A first aider who's running on empty can't help anyone.

What employers can do

• Give first aiders protected time to support colleagues
• Make sure people know who the first aiders are
• Mention mental health in team meetings so the role feels normal
• Back them up, because a first aider with no support is a very lonely role
• Allow them time for first aid. Workloads may need to be adjusted.

The bit people forget

A course is four mornings of your life; the real change happens in the weeks and months that follow. How awesome is it that a few small conversations can shift the whole feel of a workplace?

Want to keep the momentum going? Get in touch and I'll talk you through refresher options and what to put in place after training.