West Lothian Council’s Advice Network Training Programme is continuing to offer training opportunities designed to support professionals, volunteers and community practitioners across West Lothian.
Upcoming training includes the Level 5 First Aid for Mental Health qualification, which is recognised on both the RQF and SCQF frameworks.
The course aims to help participants:
- Identify mental health conditions
- Start supportive conversations
- Recognise signs and symptoms of mental ill-health
- Manage stress
- Promote positive mental health culture
- Signpost individuals to professional support where appropriate
Upcoming course dates include both classroom-based and online options throughout 2026.
Upcoming training dates
26 May 2026 – Classroom based – VSGWL
23 July 2026 – Classroom based – VSGWL
18, 19 & 25 August 2026 – Online via Zoom (all sessions required)
8 September 2026 – Classroom based – VSGWL
7 October 2026 – Classroom based – VSGWL
17, 18 & 24 November 2026 – Online via Zoom (all sessions required)
Spaces are limited and early booking is recommended.
To request further information or book a place, email:
info@environmentalhealthcic.org
(Please quote the relevant course reference number when booking.)
The update also highlights two ongoing support initiatives available locally:
Digipals
An appointment-based support session running from the Jim Walker Partnership Centre in Bathgate, helping people manage and understand their Universal Credit journal. The service is particularly useful for individuals transitioning from legacy benefits or experiencing digital difficulties.
Appointments can be booked via:
volunteering@westlothian.gov.uk
West Lothian Cancer Voices
A peer support group for people with lived experience of cancer, or those supporting someone affected by cancer.
For further information:
volunteering@westlothian.gov.uk
