Course Introduction

A half or full day course for those in education, health, social care, community and workplace wellbeing roles, developing practical skills to recognise and respond to suicide risk

Course Overview

This Suicide Prevention & Crisis Intervention course is designed for staff working with vulnerable individuals in education, health, social care, community services and workplace wellbeing roles. The training provides essential knowledge and practical skills to recognise suicide risk, respond safely and confidently in a crisis, and support individuals using trauma-informed approaches. Up to 16 delegates per course, delivered by highly experienced emergency medics with real-life crisis response experience. All courses can be accredited if required.

Course content:

  • Understanding suicide risk: prevalence, myths, stigma, and the impact of suicide on individuals, families and organisations
  • Legal responsibilities and UK guidance: Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, safeguarding duties, CQC expectations and NHS England suicide prevention standards
  • Recognising warning signs: behavioural, emotional, verbal and situational indicators
  • Risk factors and protective factors: mental health conditions, trauma, substance misuse, social isolation and environmental influences
  • Communication skills for crisis situations: trauma-informed listening, non-judgemental communication and approaching sensitive conversations safely
  • Assessing immediate risk: practical frameworks for evaluating urgency, safety and required interventions
  • Crisis intervention techniques: de-escalation strategies, grounding techniques and safe, structured responses to acute distress
  • Creating a safe environment: reducing access to means, environmental considerations and supportive workplace practices
  • Responding to suicide attempts or imminent danger: safe actions, prioritising life-saving interventions and coordinating with emergency services
  • Post-crisis support: monitoring, documentation, safeguarding referrals and supporting individuals afterwards
  • Supporting colleagues and teams: managing the emotional impact on staff, reflective practice and organisational wellbeing
  • Signposting and professional pathways: guiding individuals towards appropriate mental health support and community resources
  • Developing a suicide-aware workplace: policies, culture, preventative strategies and ongoing staff training

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