Understanding Self-Harm and Supporting Young People

With more than a third (36%) of 16–25-year-olds in Britain having self-harmed at some point in their lives *, there has never been a more crucial time to be at the forefront of youth mental health.

KIP Education’s Understanding & Supporting Young People with Self-Harm training, practical course , provides a safe, practical space to explore what self-harm is, why young people may use it as a coping mechanism, and how professionals can respond with confidence and compassion.

We also look at the growing issue of digital self-harm, helping you understand online risks and how to support young people in a digital world.

Participants will leave with practical strategies, referral pathways, and tools to create safer, more supportive environments for young people.

This course is ideal for those who want to expand their knowledge as a relevant resource for their work with young people.

With a perfect blend of theory and practical skills that you can use with young people.

This training consists of real-time sessions, techniques, discussion groups and opportunities to practice and network with each other.

Course Aims

• Deepen understanding of self-harm, including its causes, functions, and myths.
• Equip participants with the confidence to recognise warning signs early.
• Explore the emerging issue of digital self-harm (self-bullying online).
• Develop practical strategies for supporting young people safely and effectively.
• Build staff confidence in responding without judgement and signposting to appropriate help.

Topics Covered

• What Self-Harm Is (and Isn’t)
• Why Young People Self-Harm
• Digital Self-Harm
• Spotting Warning Signs
• Effective Responses
• Practical Support Strategies
• Referral & Safeguarding
• Self-Care for Practitioners

On completion of this course, you will receive a certificate and resources that can be used towards your continued professional development (CPD)

Suitable for

This course will benefit a range of people, including:

• Teachers
• Pastoral staff
• Youth workers
• Youth Offending teams
• Social and health care professionals
• Community groups
• Parents/carers
• Volunteers

Testimonials

“Everyone, whether parent, teacher, manager, or child, should hear what KIP Education have to say. The training was superb, thought provoking, informational, and motivational. Nowhere else could I have got the vital information this training provided. Everyone should know what KIP is telling you about drugs and drug misuse and the impact it has on young people lives.”

Social Worker – Camden

“This course covered all aspects that I could need – well done! Fun, interesting and a great use of case studies and life skills”

PSHE Lead – Malton, North Yorkshire

“Thank you for all these tools. The way you facilitated the training made it really easy and pleasant to contribute. It was really informative, especially as it was delivered by you, who has experienced the topic.”

Headteacher – Manchester

Training is highly participatory and interactive.

Our experienced trainers support participants through interactive exercises and facilitated discussions, creating a safe space for reflection, sharing and professional development.