Understanding Self-Harm Course

Understanding Self-Harm – Online Course

Course overview
This online course introduces the topic of self-harm, helping learners recognise potential signs of concern, understand factors that may affect wellbeing and respond with sensitivity. It focuses on respectful communication, person-centred support and recognising when further help or urgent intervention may be needed.

Please note: This course provides intermediate-level awareness and knowledge for people who may support someone affected by self-harm. It does not replace practical, specialist or role-specific training that an employer may require.

What the course covers
• Understanding self-harm and common misconceptions
• Recognising signs that someone may need support
• Factors that may contribute to vulnerability
• Reasons people may engage in self-harm
• Communicating sensitively with someone about self-harm
• Supporting children who may be affected
• Responding appropriately when injuries or concerns arise
• Understanding when to seek help and involve others
• Exploring support options and ways to encourage safer coping

Who is it for?
This course is suitable for people who may encounter self-harm in a care, support, education or workplace setting, including:
• Healthcare and mental health professionals
• Social care, residential care and support workers
• Teachers, youth workers and educational support staff
• Crisis intervention and emergency response personnel
• Family members and caregivers
• Employers, managers and HR professionals
It can also support staff induction, refresher training and general awareness development.

Practical benefits
• Develop a clearer understanding of self-harm and related concerns
• Improve awareness of signs that someone may need help
• Encourage respectful, non-judgemental communication
• Understand how to provide support within role boundaries
• Recognise when concerns should be escalated
• Improve awareness of signposting and referral options
• Promote dignity and person-centred support

What learners will be able to do
• Describe key features associated with self-harm
• Recognise possible signs that a person needs support
• Identify factors that may affect wellbeing or increase vulnerability
• Communicate with greater sensitivity and without stigma
• Respond appropriately within their responsibilities
• Recognise situations that may require urgent escalation
• Understand available signposting and referral options
• Support dignity, choice and person-centred care

Assessment and certificate
Learners complete an online quiz at the end of the course. A CPD-accredited certificate is awarded upon successful completion and can be downloaded or printed. The course includes unlimited opportunities to retake the assessment.