Cruse Scotland Vicarious Trauma Training Course

Cruse Scotland offers a Vicarious Trauma training course for organisations and individuals, across two environments: on-site training across Scotland, tailored to an organisation’s workplace and team, and online sessions (maximum 12 participants) for individuals.

Vicarious Trauma is lasting emotional effects from exposure to others’ trauma. This course is aimed at anyone working within a supporter role (including with traumatised clients), to enable them to be alert to Vicarious Trauma in themselves and others, and take steps to lessen its impact.

“Research shows that exposure to others’ trauma can cause lasting emotional effects in around 8% of people, altering stress responses and even worldview.

“At Cruse Scotland, our Vicarious Trauma training offers a supportive, reflective space to understand what vicarious trauma is, recognise its signs, and learn practical, preventative strategies to protect yourself and your team. It’s ideal for anyone working in roles where the weight of others’ experiences can accumulate over time.”

As a result of the course, participants should be able to understand and recognise:

• what Vicarious Trauma is
• its biological and behavioural roots
• the symptoms of Vicarious Trauma
• why caring practice can lead to physical and psychological issues
• how to help themselves and colleagues
• where to find support
• how to exercise better self-care as a preventative measure

About Cruse Scotland

Cruse Scotland has been supporting bereaved adults, children and young people across Scotland for over 60 years. The organisation is a national expert in bereavement counselling, listening services, information, advice and training.

Booking a Course

• Individuals:

Places are £50 for individuals, and can be booked via the online training calendar (linked for your convenience). The next session takes place on Monday 6 July 2026, from 9:30am.

• Organisations:

To organise a course for your organisation, or for further information (including cost), please contact Hannah by email: training@crusescotland.org.uk