Psychological Skills L2 2 day course 14/01/27 (online) + 28/01/27(Plymouth)

14/01/27 (online) +

28/01/27(Plymouth F2F)

Who it is for

According to NICE, ACP-UK, and the ACCEND Framework, Level 2 psychological skills training is recommended for professionals who:

• Routinely engage with patients experiencing emotional distress.
• Are expected to screen for psychological needs and provide first-line psychological support.
• Work in settings where referral to Level 3 or 4 psychological services may be required.
• Are developing core capabilities in communication, psychological support, and person-centred care as outlined in the ACCEND Career
• Pathway and Competency Framework.

This typically includes Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), Allied Health Professionals (AHPs), and other experienced staff working in cancer care roles requiring enhanced psychological awareness and support skills.

What to expect

A two-day blended learning course designed to enhance psychological care capabilities in cancer settings. The course is aligned with the NICE Four-Level Model of Psychological Support and the ACCEND Framework, supporting the development of core capabilities for high-quality, person-centred cancer care.

This course will be delivered by the Torbay Clinical Health Psychology team, with support from Andy Garner, Oncology Education Lead at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.

Day 1

Participants will:

• Understand the NICE Four-Level Model of Psychological Support in Cancer Care.
• Describe the key responsibilities and boundaries of Level 2 practitioners.
• Understand the psychological impact of cancer across the cancer pathway.
• Recognise and assess signs and symptoms of psychological distress and risk.
• Identify common emotional and psychological responses to cancer, trauma, and loss (e.g. anxiety, depression, grief, trauma symptoms).
• Distinguish between normal adjustment and distress that may require escalation to Tier 3 or 4 services.
• Develop communication skills to support assessments and identify risk.

Day 2

Participants will:

• Develop knowledge and skills in applying Level 2 evidence-based interventions for mild to moderate psychological distress.
• Apply knowledge to practice through case studies, role play, and experiential learning exercises.
• Develop knowledge using screening tools to support assessment and intervention planning.
• Explore opportunities for signposting and referring on to a Level 3/4 service.
• Identify signs of compassion fatigue or vicarious trauma in oneself or colleagues.
• Develop and implement effective self-care and reflective practice strategies to sustain wellbeing and professional effectiveness.

Prices

Places for staff within the Peninsula Cancer Alliance will be funded by The Peninsula Cancer Academy.

Date and Place

Thursday 14 January 2027 (Online), and Thursday 28 January 2027 (In Person), Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, PL6 8DH