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Befriender Training Programme
The training was originally set out as Part 1 and Part 2 held over 4 days. Feedback from this course showed that the commitment to 4 days was difficult for some parents and not really necessary given the level of skills they were bringing with them. We have always recognised the valuable commitment from parents in giving their time to Sands, so we looked at a way of reducing the number of training days.
Our training programme now consists of 2 courses: Initial and Advanced.
Initial Befriender Training
This is a 2 day course and after successful completion, written notification will be sent advising that the Befriender may commence their new role.
The aims of our Initial Befriender Training course are to enable participants to develop their befriending skills. In particular they will learn how to build a safe and trusting environment in which anyone affected by the death of a baby feels supported and able to explore and express their feelings.
Advanced Befriender Training
This is a 1 day course which experienced Befrienders will be expected to attend to review and enhace their skills.
The aims of Advanced Befriender Training are to enable befrienders to further develop their befriending skills and explore any challenging situations they may have experienced. The training will be highly experiential and will draw on befrienders own experiences.
Our training days are very interactive, with exercises carried out in pairs and small groups, as well as the group as a whole. Each day runs from 10am to 4.30pm.
Feedback from our training has been excellent:
"It wasn't as scary as I thought it would be."
"I didn't realise how much support I would get from the rest of the group and Sands."
"The training has given me the courage and confidence to befriend."
"Very inspiring."
"I enjoyed the relaxed style."
"Brilliant!"
If you are interested in attending the training then please also read Becoming a Sands Befriender as there are a few requirements which must be met before you may apply
Click here to download Befriender Training Application Form ยป
