Looking after our mental health and wellbeing is just as important as caring for our physical health. The Five Ways to Wellbeing is an evidence-based framework developed by the New Economics Foundation (NEF) to help people live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.

This free 5 ways to wellbeing online course explores each of the five principles — Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give — and demonstrates how these simple actions can make a powerful difference to wellbeing in everyday life.

You’ll learn how to apply these principles to your own life, as well as how to support the wellbeing of colleagues, clients, and people you care for.

Why Take This eLearning Course?

Mental health and wellbeing are essential for providing safe, compassionate, and effective care. The Five Ways to Wellbeing model is practical, easy to understand, and can be applied across all health and social care settings.

Here’s why this course is valuable:

• Evidence-based approach: Learn the scientific foundations behind the Five Ways to Wellbeing and how they support mental and emotional health.
• Improve your wellbeing: Discover practical, everyday techniques to enhance your resilience and happiness.
• Support others effectively: Understand how to integrate wellbeing principles into your professional practice and daily interactions.
• Promote positive workplace culture: Help create a more supportive, motivated, and mentally healthy environment.

Five Ways to Wellbeing in Health and Social Care Course Outline

Module 1: Understanding Wellbeing
Learners will explore the definition of wellbeing and its vital role in maintaining good mental health. The module introduces the evidence-based Five Ways to Wellbeing framework developed by the New Economics Foundation (NEF), explaining how each component supports emotional resilience, mental clarity, and life satisfaction. Learners will also review the UK public health context for promoting wellbeing among people who use services.

Module 2: Be Active
This module examines the relationship between physical activity and mental health, highlighting how regular movement enhances mood and reduces stress. Learners will identify simple and accessible forms of exercise suitable for all abilities, such as walking, stretching, or chair-based activities. The module also provides strategies for encouraging service users to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines safely and enjoyably.

Module 3: Take Notice
Learners will explore the concept of mindfulness and how awareness of the present moment supports emotional regulation and wellbeing. The module includes practical techniques such as journaling, breathing exercises, and noticing changes in the environment. Learners will discover how to integrate mindfulness practices into personal and professional life to foster calmness, focus, and empathy when supporting others.

Module 4: Keep Learning
This module explains how continuous learning contributes to personal growth, confidence, and mental health. Learners will explore opportunities for ongoing development, from formal training and e-learning to hobbies and creative pursuits. The module also demonstrates how to motivate individuals in care settings to engage in learning, supporting their sense of achievement and self-worth.

Module 5: Give
Learners will understand how giving to others—whether through acts of kindness, volunteering, or community involvement—positively affects wellbeing. The module explores how generosity and altruism foster purpose, gratitude, and social connection. Learners will also identify ways to promote giving behaviours among service users to enhance collective wellbeing and community cohesion.

Module 6: Connect
This module highlights the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships. Learners will explore practical ways to connect with colleagues, service users, and the wider community. Topics include active listening, empathy, and creating inclusive environments. The module also demonstrates how connection reduces loneliness and supports both mental and emotional resilience.

Module 7: Practical Application of the Five Ways to Wellbeing
Learners will apply all five wellbeing principles in real-world scenarios, developing strategies for both personal and professional use. The module explores how combining actions—such as connecting while being active—creates a greater impact on wellbeing. Learners will reflect on personal experiences and identify ways to integrate these practices into daily life and care delivery.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Define wellbeing and explain its importance in maintaining good mental health.
• Describe the evidence and theory behind the Five Ways to Wellbeing.
• Apply each of the five principles to personal and professional life:
  • Connect: Build and strengthen social relationships.
  • Be Active: Understand the link between physical activity and mental wellbeing.
  • Take Notice: Practise mindfulness and gratitude to stay present.
  • Keep Learning: Explore how ongoing learning supports confidence and self-esteem.
  • Give: Recognise the emotional benefits of kindness, generosity, and helping others.
• Identify simple, accessible activities that promote wellbeing.
• Support others in adopting the Five Ways to Wellbeing to improve quality of life.
• Reflect on personal wellbeing and develop strategies for continued growth.

Target Audience

This course is suitable for:

• Health and social care workers
• Team leaders, managers, and wellbeing champions
• Volunteers and community support workers
• Anyone looking to improve personal wellbeing or support others’ mental health

No prior knowledge is required. The course is ideal for both new learners and experienced professionals.

FAQ

How long does the course take?
Most learners complete this course in 1–2 hours, depending on their pace and reflection time.

Do I need previous wellbeing or mental health training?
No. This course is designed for all learners — from those new to the sector to experienced staff seeking a wellbeing refresher.

Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. You’ll receive a digital certificate upon completion of the course, which you can use for your CPD portfolio or supervision records.

Is the course evidence-based?
Yes. The Five Ways to Wellbeing model is backed by the New Economics Foundation and endorsed by public health and NHS organisations across the UK.

Is this course CPD accredited?
Our courses are currently in the process of CPD accreditation. Certificates will reflect CPD hours once approved.

The Five Ways to Wellbeing remind us that small, everyday actions can have a big impact on how we feel. From connecting with others to taking time to notice the world around us, each principle helps build resilience, reduce stress, and improve overall mental health.

By completing this course, you’ll gain the tools and understanding to improve wellbeing for yourself, your team, and the people you support.

Enrol on the Five Ways to Wellbeing Training Course today

Learn how to build positive habits that boost wellbeing — for yourself and those you care for.