The training within this section could help you to meet knowledge gaps within the ACCEND capabilities. Visit the ACCEND page to download the framework for your role.
Recognising and Responding to Psychological Distress
This targeted training package aims to help staff to recognise and respond appropriately when patients show signs of psychological distress in relation to their cancer investigations or diagnosis. Delivered by psychological professionals participants are guided to recognise different types of distress, before considering the best strategies to respond to emotional distress including onward referral.
- Format: In person, 4 hours
- Audience: All staff working in cancer care
Next Date: Monday 5th October – Book your ticket
Check our Training Calendar for more dates
Psychological Support Skills in Cancer Care
Psychological skills in cancer care | HLTH6258 | University of Southampton
(Funded course value: £1,793)
10 ECTS Points (20 CATS Points)
The aim of this MSc level module is to support students to develop an in-depth understanding of assessing psychological wellbeing, and of planning and delivering psychologically-informed care for people living with cancer.
Over 6 study days students learn to provide timely and sensitive care based on theory and evidence i.e. Level 2 psychological support (NICE 2004).
This includes delivering low-intensity interventions including psychological information and psychoeducation for patients and families, support people to self-manage and adjust to life situations, problem solving and managing crises. The assessment is skills based, involving a conversation with a simulated patient (actor) and with an academic to assess underpinning knowledge.
Student feedback has indicated that students feel more confident in recognising, assessing and communicating with people experiencing distress and more confident in providing appropriate and effective support.
Students have indicated that they would change their practice based on the learning from the module:
“I have found this a brilliant way to learn new skills and gain confidence in using them. I have recommended this course to members of my team and other colleagues and I am sure that my patients will really benefit. The challenge of being out of the clinical area for 6-7 days in completely justified by the knowledge and skills that I have brought back to patient care and clinical practice.”
“Recognising sign of distress, anxiety in patients and approach conversations with more confidence.”
“Assessing risk when cues are given Giving the appropriate time/space to delve into people’s psychological concerns Not just fixing a problem!”
“It really has made a huge impact on my practice and I have been able to acknowledge and reflect on my own behaviour/stresses & values.”
“Very knowledgeable and skilled professionals delivering the course content.”
Module dates for 2027:
- 13 January
- 20 January
- 27 January
- 3 February
- 10 February
- 24 February
- 3 March
Visit MSc Modules for information about how to apply for a place on this course.
Sage & Thyme: How to Listen and Respond to Distress
This online workshop reminds you how to listen and respond in a way that empowers the patient. Using the SAGE & THYME structure, you will learn evidence-based communication skills to provide person-centred support to someone with emotional concerns.
The principles are generic and can be used with anyone in distress. The training was developed to meet the level 1 skills requirement described in the 2004 NICE guidance on “Improving Supportive & Palliative Care for Adults with Cancer”.
- Format: Online workshop
- Audience: All clinical and non-clinical staff and volunteers involved in cancer care
- Provider: Macmillan Cancer Support
- Link: Sage & Thyme
Sign up to the Macmillan Learning Hub
Psychological Support Skills to Enhance Cancer Care
This enhanced level e-learning module offers an overview of working with psychological distress in clinical practice, to support people living with cancer. The course explores depression, anxiety, panic attacks, suicidal ideation and safeguarding. It looks at assessment tools and strategies to help modify emotions and promote better mental health and wellbeing for people living with cancer. The course also focuses on the mental health and wellbeing of the cancer workforce by helping to build self care strategies for healthcare professionals.
- Format: e-learning
- Audience: All health and social care professionals
- Provider: Macmillan Cancer Support
- Link: Psychological Support Skills
Sign up to the Macmillan Learning Hub
Mental Health Crisis in People Living with Cancer
This e-learning programme will enable you to gain an understanding of what a mental health crisis is and explore it from the perspective of a person living with cancer. This course also enables access to resources to support people living with cancer that may experience a mental health crisis during their cancer journey.
- Format: e-learning
- Audience: All health and social care professionals
- Provider: Macmillan Cancer Support
- Link: Mental Health and Cancer
Sign up to the Macmillan Learning Hub