Self Harm & Learning Disabilities (1 Day)

Self harm takes many forms and affects many people. It is often misunderstood by workers, thus leading to much confusion, mutual helplessness, breakdown of relationships, limited understanding of social ‘norms’ and depression related to environmental conditions.

This course is designed for anyone who has contact with people with Learning Disabilities who self harm and wish to gain increased understanding of this challenge and to enhance the support they offer.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of this training learners should have understood:

• What is meant by Self Harm
• The different forms Self Harm commonly takes
• The underlying factors that may lead to this behaviour
• The differences between:
        -Suicide
        -Para Suicide
        -Self Harm
• Deliberate vs less conscious and unconscious Self Harm
• Different Psychological perspectives
• A Psychiatric perspective
• Assessment of behaviour and Risk Assessment
• Managing the risk
• Causation and Triggers
• Dangers
• The experience of the person who self harms
• The impact on friends, partners & family
• Offering support and the experience of the support worker
• Confusion and mutual helplessness
• Establishing an appropriate supportive relationship
• Help available and referrals
• Health & Safety issues
• What can be done and the limitations within a social care setting

Working methods:

• Tutor presentations
• Ice breakers
• Discussion
• Case studies
• Small & Larger group work
• OHP/PowerPoint
• Handouts

CP181/5.9