Learn to Help. Be There When It Matters Most.

My mission is to equip adults with practical, accredited training to recognise and respond to youth mental health challenges. I deliver this support-focused education through a Christian lens, emphasising compassion, hope, and care, while remaining inclusive and open to all. Whether you're a parent, teacher, youth leader, or carer, my goal is to help you feel confident and prepared to make a difference in the lives of young people.

First Aid for Youth Mental Health

  • Young people today face increasing mental health challenges, and many adults feel unsure how to help. This training empowers you to:

    • Understand what mental health is and how it impacts young people.

    • Recognise early signs of mental health struggles.

    • Learn practical steps to provide first aid support.

    • Reduce stigma and build safe, supportive communities.

  • Anyone who actively connects with young people.

    Such as:

    • Parents and carers.

    • Teachers and school staff.

    • Youth leaders and volunteers.

    • Young adults who work with youth.

    • Anyone passionate about supporting young people.

    • Qualification: FAA-accredited, level 2 (Ofqual-regulated).

    • Format: Online via Zoom on consecutive weekday evenings or a full day on a Saturday.

    • Next online dates: Three Mondays — August 4, 11, and 18th.

    • Time: 7:00 – 9:15 PM.

    • Cost: £60 PP with group rate options.

About Me

Hi, I’m Matt.

Originally from New Zealand and born in the UK, I now live in Brighton and am part of the St Peter’s Church community.

My background is in education, with over 3 years of classroom teaching experience and 3 years as a swimming instructor, which has shaped my passion for helping young people succeed.

I have personally faced mental health challenges throughout my life, which fuels my commitment to this work. After becoming a Mental Health First Aider in New Zealand, I was inspired to empower others to gain these vital skills. In 2024, I became a certified instructor through Nuco Training, qualifying me to teach all levels and types of Mental Health First Aid.

I now focus on equipping parents, carers, youth leaders, teachers, and young adults with the skills and confidence to support youth mental health in a practical, compassionate way. While my approach is rooted in Christian values of hope and care, the training is open and welcoming to everyone.

Testimonials

Arnold Mabiala

"I am so glad I did this course. It was incredibly informative, practical, and empowering. I now feel much more confident in recognising signs of mental health struggles and offering support in a safe and compassionate way. Mental health matters, and this training is a valuable step toward creating a more supportive and understanding community. I highly recommend it!"

Nicky Davies

"I was nervous to do this course because it is on Zoom, and from 'lockdown', my experiences of Zoom were not great. However, because of the way the course was conducted and because of the way Matt was really encouraging right at the beginning and the manner in which he spoke, it relaxed me to enjoy the course. It was also great to meet other people with whom you could discuss thoughts and processes. By the end, I felt very supported and have gained a lot of knowledge which I will be able to put into action with our youth club."

Chelsea Flood

"Matthew was really knowledgeable and great at communicating, helping everybody where they are and being mindful when sensitive subjects were being covered. He was great at breaking the ice and ensuring we felt comfortable with one another. It was great having it within the Christian context as we were all from the same sort of setting."

Contact

Ready to take the next step in supporting youth mental health?

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, youth leader, carer, or young adult, I’d love to help you build the skills and confidence to make a real difference.

When you get in touch, I’ll share further upcoming training dates or help you arrange a session at a time that works for you or your group. You can also find out about options for church teams and school staff, as well as group rates.

Let’s start the conversation, because every young person deserves to feel safe, supported, and understood.