Suicide First Aid through understanding Suicide Intervention (SFAUSI)

SFA USI is comprised of 4 parts, each 90 minutes duration. The programme teaches and practices the skills and knowledge needed to identify someone who may be thinking about suicide and competently intervene to help create suicide-safety as a first aid approach.

The course will enable candidates to build the skills and confidence around suicide, how to support someone who may have suicidal thoughts in seeking the appropriate help.

SFA: Suicide First Aid training is underpinned by three core beliefs:

• Most people thinking about suicide do not want their lives to end, they want the pain to stop.
• Most people thinking about suicide let others know, consciously or unconsciously. Therefore...
• Suicide has to be one of the most preventable deaths.

We limit numbers to 16 people per course so that the instructor can keep people safe and supported while they learn.

No previous experience or training is necessary. Participants will be asked to self- reflect and empathise with a person having thoughts of suicide. There is no expectation on participants to share personal experiences.

Evidence Base:

Two independent evaluations in 2016 and 2017 by Dr Paul Rogers demonstrated significant statistical change in 14 of 19 measures. Increased confidence and reduced anxiety in dealing with suicide, were among the leading outcomes.

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Methods of delivery:

Taught over 6 hours using tutor facilitated Socratic learning, tutor-led, mini lectures, group work and audio-visual presentations. This is a highly interactive and emotionally engaging learning experience.

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Accreditation - optional extra

Participants will gain 6 NQF credit points at Level 4 by completing a workbook of tasks that are assessed against the set learning outcomes. Optional extra of £80 cost.

Part 1:

· Introduction to: the day; programme; ourselves and suicide   prevention

· Stigma, Survivors of bereavement by suicide and the Hidden Toll

· Suicide thoughts and suicide behaviour

· Intention of behaviour Versus Outcome of behaviour

· Possible Causes of Suicide thoughts

Part 2:

· Suicide – the Ripple Effect

· Population-based approach to   suicide prevention

· Partnership working

· Working with attitudes and   values  “I’m Really Glad You Told Me “Audio visual

Part 3:

· Suicide – the Ripple Effect

· Population-based approach to   suicide prevention

· Partnership working

· Working with attitudes and values  “I’m Really Glad You Told Me “Audio visual

Part 4:

· Step 3 – Safeguarding suicide

· Suicide-safety and self-care

· The risk assessment approach

· Future learning