• Training ranges from introductory talks and workshops to specialised professional training.
• Training workshops are participatory and, if appropriate, experiential, using case studies, exercises and role-plays to practice skills and self-development.

Through our work we have developed a deep understanding of the reasons individuals harm themselves and of the things they need to help them overcome their self-injury.

We have wide experience of the concerns and needs of workers in different setting and disciplines, and in developing good working practice.

Who is the training for?

Training seminars and workshops are designed to meet the needs of those working in different settings, such as:

• Social workers
• Medical staff
• Community Mental Health Teams
• Residential Workers
• Counsellors
• Youth Workers
• Prison Staff
• Helpline Workers

Broad Interest Groups of users, professionals, volunteers, or supporters are offered introductory talks or exploratory workshops.

Special Interest Groups (for example, those working with survivors of sexual abuse) can be provided with training tailored to their particular needs.

What does the training cover?

Training includes topics such as:

• What is self-injury?
• Why do people injure themselves?
• What are the best ways to help someone who self-injures?
• What issues does self-injury raise for me?

Introductory talks and workshops focus mainly on understanding self-injury.

Specialised Professional Training looks in-depth at ways of working with someone who self-injures, and at the particular concerns which self-injury may raise in different work contexts. We also explore how workers may feel about their work and what support they themselves may need.

Groups may have other particular needs and interests which can be discussed with us and incorporated into the workshops.

How is training carried out?

• Training workshops participatory and course members are encouraged to discuss issues in groups, often using relevant case studies and exercises. If appropriate, workshops can be experimental, with participants using role play and other exercises to practise skills and aid self-development.
• Talks and seminars of varying lengths can be provided for any group size. We offer short lectures or longer presentations, followed by opportunities for discussion.

What about the cost?

Fees for training vary according to the nature of the session. Training workshops for statutory groups are offered at standard training rates. This enables us to offer lower cost training to smaller or unfunded groups. We have a commitment to providing education about self-injury as widely as possible and are happy to negotiate manageable fees.

To find out more

If you would like more information about our training, or to discuss your training needs, please contact Hilary Lindsay on 0117 927 9600, write to BCSW, PO BOX 654, Bristol, BS99 1XH or e-mail bcsw@btconnect.com

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