1. Supporting the dying & their families

2. Improving communication with relatives of residents

3. Person-centred care for people with dementia

4. Depression in older people

Other courses include:

Team building

Reminiscence

Breaking Bad News

For further details of these and other possible courses, please contact Ruth Wright.

Courses can be held in-house or at a venue of your choice. Fees are negotiable.

Each training session is flexible according to the needs of individual groups. It is difficult to give accurate timing of activities as it is vital to allow enough time for discussion and expression of concerns. The training usually lasts for 5/6 hours plus time for refreshments.

The aim will be to create a relaxed, friendly and non-threatening atmosphere and to provide helpful and enjoyable training.

Activities will be carried out individually, in pairs, in small groups and in the full group. There will also be video input. It is helpful to have a flipchart stand, OHP, TV & video available.

To start the training:

Introduction of facilitator(s) and group members, including an opportunity to state hopes and/or concerns about the training.

1. Supporting the dying & their families

Participants need to be aware that this type of training may trigger difficult emotions.

The programme will include:

• What are your concerns in supporting the dying?

• What is a 'good' death?

• What are the possible emotions of the dying person?

• How can support be given to the dying & their families?

• What are the possible difficulties in offering support?

• How can carers take care of themselves?

 2. Improving communication with relatives of residents

Looking at the roles of carers, clients & relatives in residential/nursing care

 The programme will include:

• Whose home is it? The 'triangle of power' & consequences of distortion.

• What makes a 'good' home?

• Establishing & sustaining good relationships

• Good communication - some key factors

• Dealing with complaints

• Making the most of visits.

3. Person-centred care for people with dementia

 The programme will be taken from the following:

• Principles of person-centred care

• Psychological needs of people with dementia

• Communication

• Developing activities

• Difficult & challenging behaviour

• Monitoring behaviour

• Signs of well-being

• Possible difficulties for carers

• Involving families

• Issues for the workplace

4. Depression in older people

The programme will be taken from the following:

• Possible causes of depression

• Signs & symptoms

• Counselling skills

• Case studies

• Supporting a depressed person

• Possible therapeutic activities

• Issues for the workplace