Full course description
Date: Saturday, 12 September 2026
Modality: In-person
Duration: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Price: $495 incl. GST
The Royal Inquiry into Abuse in Care report (Lake Alice), included recommendations on how Aotearoa New Zealand can better protect and care for children, young people, and adults from abuse and harm, in Health, State and Faith-based care settings. In 2024, the Nursing Council of Aotearoa New Zealand made a public apology of the role of nurses in this, which highlighted the need for increased knowledge and training in trauma work.
Many health professionals are not confident to ask, or fear they will do more harm if they raise aspects of trauma and abuse, particularly within the health system. Therefore, this short course sets out to support the requirements of nurses and other health professionals, to develop more knowledge, skills and competency in recognising, asking and responding to disclosure of abuse and trauma.
Short course structure and topics covered
- Definitions of trauma
- “Stop think and act” framework
- Guiding principles
- Context setting – The pre-asking phase
- Direct enquiry and record keeping
- Response to disclosure
- Safety & follow up
Learning outcomes:
- Gain the confidence to inquire about trauma and abuse
- Practice the skills of asking and responding
- Knowledge of health agencies to refer people for help and support
- Understand the legal requirements for reporting abuse and trauma to appropriate agencies
Who should attend? / Any entry requirements?
No prior knowledge is required, this course is open to all health and disability professionals, (and teachers etc.), who work directly with the public. The skills taught are valuable when dealing with people who are at risk of self harm.
Previous participant feedback:
Previous participants in this workshop commented: “I gained skills in how to respond”, I realised “the importance of working as a team when there is evidence of abuse”, and the need to “make the connections between peoples’ poor physical and mental health due to trauma”.
Payment for short courses is normally by credit card. If you need to pay by invoice or require assistance, please email shortcourses@auckland.ac.nz. Please note the University does not issue individual invoices for amounts less than $500 New Zealand dollars.
By enrolling in a Short Course at the University of Auckland you agree to the Short Course Terms and Conditions