Youths to be trained to provide psychological first aid during emergencies under new MHA initiative

A new volunteer programme launched by Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs aims to train young people to provide psychological first aid during emergencies. The Human Emergency Assistance and Response Teams (HEART) Associates Youth Wing programme will equip around 30 youths in its inaugural cohort with the necessary skills to support their peers and bolster community resilience. Of the 100 youths who expressed interest, most are expected to join by year-end.

Minister Sim Ann highlighted that when crises occur, young people often turn to friends and peers for comfort. These volunteers, who include third-year polytechnic students, university undergraduates, and postgraduate students pursuing psychology or related disciplines, will learn how to share accurate information, provide peer support, and build resilience in their communities.

The programme, under the youth arm of the HEART Professionals Network, will utilize role-playing exercises, lectures, discussions, and case studies to teach participants skills such as empathy, listening, and support. Director Dr Diong Siew Maan emphasized that these young volunteers would better connect with their peers due to their familiarity with youth culture and social media.

Volunteers like Nimbalkar Arrya Ajit, a psychology student at NUS, aim to gain confidence in administering psychological first aid, should a crisis arise. Ryan Oh, another participant, hopes to turn his interest in crisis response into credible, skilled support for fellow youths.