Ligature Awareness & Prevention Training

This Ligature Awareness & Prevention course is designed for staff working in environments where individuals may be at risk of self-harm or suicide. The training provides essential knowledge to recognise ligature risks, respond safely to incidents, and implement preventative measures in line with UK legislation and CQC expectations. Up to 12 delegates per course, delivered by highly experienced emergency medics and police detectives with real-life emergency response experience. All courses can be accredited if required.

Course content:

• Understanding ligature risks: what ligatures are, how they are used, and why certain environments increase risk
• Legal responsibilities and UK guidance: Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, CQC requirements, NHS England guidance and employer duties
• Identifying ligature points: common and hidden points in workplaces, care settings, education and community environments
• Environmental risk assessment: conducting ligature-specific risk assessments and implementing control measures
• Recognising warning signs: behavioural indicators, verbal cues and situational factors
• Immediate response to a ligature incident: safe, structured actions, including prioritising life-saving interventions
• Cut-down procedures: safely removing a ligature using approved techniques and equipment (non-live demonstration)
• Post-incident management: monitoring, documentation, safeguarding considerations and supporting the individual afterwards
• Communication and teamwork: coordinating with colleagues, emergency services and clinical teams
• Prevention strategies: environmental design, staff vigilance, policy development and ongoing monitoring
• Supporting vulnerable individuals: trauma-informed approaches, de-escalation and signposting to mental health support