½ Day Self-Harm and Suicide Awareness Course
Raise awareness and understanding of self-harm and suicide risks. No formal course required – ideal for introductory sessions.
Self-Harm and Suicide Awareness Course
Course Overview
This half-day course provides participants with a clear understanding of self-harm and suicide risk among children and young people, including the underlying causes, signs, and appropriate responses.
The training focuses on recognising early warning signs, responding with empathy and confidence, and knowing when and how to escalate concerns within safeguarding and mental health frameworks.
The course promotes a trauma-informed and non-judgemental approach, supporting both prevention and post-incident care. It encourages open communication, early intervention, and professional confidence when discussing difficult topics.
This training aligns with the Children Act 1989 & 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018), NICE Guidelines on Self-Harm and Suicide Prevention (NG225 & NG105), and the Mental Health Act 1983 (amended 2007).
Who is this course for?
- Residential and Children’s Home Staff
- Education Staff (Teachers, SENCOs, Pastoral Leads, Support Workers)
- Local Authority and Social Care Practitioners
- Youth and Community Workers
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Practitioners
- Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs)
- Voluntary and Charitable Sector Organisations
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
Understand Self-Harm and Suicide in Context
- Define self-harm and suicidal ideation, and understand how they differ.
- Recognise that self-harm may serve as a coping mechanism, not always a suicide attempt.
- Understand risk and protective factors associated with self-harm and suicide in young people.
- Explore the emotional, social, and environmental influences that contribute to distress.
Recognise Warning Signs and Risk Indicators
- Identify early warning signs of self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
- Recognise changes in behaviour, mood, appearance, or communication that may indicate distress.
- Understand how to assess immediacy and severity of risk using professional judgement.
- Explore real-life case examples to practice identifying signs of risk.
Responding Safely and Compassionately
- Learn how to approach and communicate with someone expressing distress or suicidal thoughts.
- Develop confidence in having open, supportive, and non-judgemental conversations.
- Understand what to say (and what not to say) when supporting someone at risk.
- Follow appropriate escalation pathways, including when to involve safeguarding leads, health professionals, or emergency services.
Supporting Recovery and Resilience
- Apply trauma-informed and person-centred principles to support recovery.
- Explore how to help young people develop positive coping strategies and access appropriate support.
- Understand the role of peer influence, social media, and stigma in perpetuating self-harm behaviours.
- Promote protective factors, resilience, and safe expression of emotions.
Recording, Reporting, and Reflective Practice
- Record incidents of self-harm or suicidal ideation factually and sensitively, avoiding judgmental language.
- Understand the importance of accurate documentation for safeguarding and follow-up care.
- Reflect on personal reactions and emotional responses to ensure professional resilience.
- Use supervision and team support to maintain wellbeing and consistent standards of care.
Relevant Legislation and Guidance
- Children Act 1989 & 2004 – Duties to safeguard and promote welfare.
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) – Multi-agency safeguarding responsibilities.
- Mental Health Act 1983 (amended 2007) – Assessment and intervention for mental health crises.
- Suicide Prevention Strategy for England (2023–2031) – National guidance on prevention and response.
- NICE Guideline NG225 (2022) – Self-harm: Assessment, management, and prevention.
- Data Protection Act 2018 (GDPR) – Managing and sharing sensitive mental health information appropriately.
- Human Rights Act 1998 – Upholding dignity, autonomy, and the right to life.
Reflective and Defensible Practice
- Reflect on how personal attitudes and emotional responses influence professional practice.
- Develop confidence in discussing difficult topics with empathy and professionalism.
- Ensure actions taken are defensible, proportionate, and consistent with policy.
- Contribute to a culture of openness, understanding, and early intervention.
Assessment & Certification
- Participation in group discussion and scenario-based activities
- Short knowledge check
- Certificate of Attendance valid for 12–24 months (depending on organisational policy)
½ Day
(Approx. 3.5 hours)
Role-play, case studies, guided reflection activities
On-site
Flexible
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Protect your staff with the 2-Day PMVA (Prevention and Management of Violence and Aggression) and give them the confidence to safely handle conflict in high-risk situations.
Delivered on-site or online by experienced trainers, this practical programme ensures compliance, reduces risk, and builds a safer workplace.
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