The Academy at Harmless is delighted to announce its 2025–2026 timetable of free online training courses for those working or volunteering in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. We are also pleased to confirm that eligibility now extends to those working in justice services, private sector organisations and faith or community groups.
Commissioned by Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and NHS Nottingham & Nottinghamshire ICB, The Academy will deliver a year-long programme of bespoke training in Mental Health Awareness, Self Harm Awareness, Suicide Prevention and Suicide Bereavement.
We are thrilled that this free training is now open to more people than ever before, helping us extend our passion for mental health and create an even greater impact. All sessions are evidence-based, CPD-accredited and designed to equip you with the skills, confidence and compassion to make a difference.
Who Can Take Part?
The training is free and open to anyone working or volunteering in Nottingham or Nottinghamshire with people of all ages in the following sectors:
- Community & voluntary organisations / community champions supporting those at risk of suicide or self-harm
- Children’s Social Services / Early Help Family Services
- Organisations supporting financially vulnerable people (advice services, debt agencies, food banks, libraries)
- Adult Social Care
- Primary Care
- First Responders (police, fire service, paramedics)
- Housing & homelessness services
- Social Prescribers & community workers
- Public Health commissioned services
- Individuals from justice services, private sector organisations and faith / community groups
About the Training
Our online training is interactive, inclusive and practical. You’ll take part in discussions, case studies, quizzes and activities, with additional audio / visual resources to support all learning styles. Sessions are delivered via Microsoft Teams and are led by expert Training & Education Officers with both professional expertise and lived experience in suicide prevention and postvention. Each course is CPD-accredited, research-informed and aligned with the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, NICE guidelines and Health Education England’s Competence Frameworks. You’ll leave our training with practical tools, supporting resources and a certificate of completion.
Specialist Courses Available
In response to the Wave 4 Engagement Project, The Academy has now developed a series of further targeted courses in addition to our core programme. This training delivers specialised skills and focused expertise for those supporting specific groups identified as being at higher risk of suicide:
- LGBTQIA+ Self Harm & Suicide Prevention
- Gypsy, Roma & Traveller Self Harm & Suicide Prevention
- Children & Young People Self Harm & Suicide Prevention
- Boys & Men Self Harm & Suicide Prevention
Why This Matters & What You’ll Learn
- Self Harm Awareness: Understand the complexities of self harm and how to respond with empathy and confidence.
- Suicide Prevention: Gain the skills to support those at risk, challenge stigma and promote recovery.
- Suicide Bereavement: Learn how to offer sensitive, respectful support for those impacted by a suicide.
- Mental Health Awareness: Equip yourself with tools to support others – whether you’re a manager, frontline worker or community volunteer.
Together, we can save lives and create lasting change.
Join us in a network of people making Nottingham and Nottinghamshire a safer, more supportive place for all. Download a training brochure and book your free place via the button below.
