Free Level 2 Self-harm and Suicide Awareness and Prevention Course. Study online, at your own pace, in your own time. The course typically takes up to 12 weeks and covers how to recognise warning signs, understand risk factors, and respond appropriately to people who may be at risk. The knowledge applies across a wide range of settings, including childcare, youth work, community work, counselling, and volunteering. This free self-harm and suicide awareness and prevention course for adults is funded for eligible learners in England.
Who this course is for
This qualification is aimed at anyone who would like to raise their awareness of suicide and self-harm. If are studying or working in the counselling, community work, childcare, youth work or volunteering sectors, you will find this qualification useful.
Entry requirements
To be eligible for funding, you must live in England and have resided in the UK or EU/EEA for the last 3 years, must be aged 19 or over, must not have previously studied the course you are applying for or another similar course and must not currently be enrolled on another government-funded education programme. If you are aged between 19 and 23 - you must hold a full level 2 qualification If you're not eligible for funding, you can purchase the course online if you are over the age of 16.
What you will learn
You'll understand the key risk factors associated with self-harm and suicidal behaviour.
You'll learn how to recognise warning signs in individuals who may be at risk.
You'll explore the psychological and social factors that contribute to self-harm and suicide.
You'll develop knowledge of how to respond safely and supportively in a crisis situation.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities in relation to self-harm and suicide.
You'll learn about the support services and referral pathways available to people at risk.
How you will learn
All study and assessment takes place online. You work through online learning materials in your own time and complete an online assessment to demonstrate your knowledge. There are no classroom sessions or fixed timetable. On completion, you receive a digital e-certificate issued by TQUK.
What you will need to bring
You'll need access to a device with an internet connection to study and complete your assessment online. All learning materials are provided digitally. The Skills Network will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Support worker: helping people with mental health or emotional needs
Youth worker: supporting young people in community or educational settings
Teaching assistant: working alongside pupils who need additional pastoral support
Crisis helpline volunteer: providing telephone or online support to people in distress
Childcare worker: caring for children in nursery or early years settings
Community outreach worker: connecting vulnerable people with local services
Safeguarding officer: overseeing welfare and risk management in organisations
What you could study next
Level 3 Award in Mental Health in the Workplace: builds on awareness to cover mental health support in employment settings.
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills: a step toward working in a counselling or therapeutic support role.
Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care: broadens your knowledge for roles across health, social care, and support services.
Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Mental Health: deepens your understanding of mental health conditions more broadly.
