This term, the Cambridge SU will be running three different on-line training sessions. All are suitable for JCR/MCR Welfare/Support Officers, Liberation Campaigns, Academic Officers and Faculty Reps, clubs and societies, and any student volunteers with an interest in welfare support.

There are 12 spaces in each training session - it'll be first come first served so please include your email so we can let you know that you have a place! If you haven't done it already, we recommend 'Essential Skills for Supporting Students' in the first instance.

1) Essential Skills for Supporting Students
By the end of this session you will be able to:
• Explain the meaning of confidentiality and its relevance to your role
• Examine boundaries and how these apply to your role
• Provide active listening
• Recognise the difference between active listening and advice giving
• Identify various sources of support to which students can be signposted to in College, the University, the city of Cambridge and nationally.


2) Introduction to Student Mental Health
We will explore:
• the meaning of mental health
• the most common mental health issues amongst students
• what your role is in relation to students with mental health issues
• how to cope with a distressed student
• sources of support

3) Supporting a student who may be feeling suicidal
• Provide emotional “first aid” to students who feel suicidal (listening and asking direct questions)
• Recognise warning signs of someone who may be suicidal
• Have an understanding of risk factors
• Make sensitive and effective referrals
• Use support effectively

These sessions will be delivered on-line and the details will be sent to you when we confirm you have a place. Please email me (Lisa.Dery@cambridgesu.co.uk) should you have any access requirements.