TRiM – Frequently Asked Questions

Although TRiM has been around for several years, its benefits are only now being fully recognised in many workplaces. So, if you're still considering whether TRiM is a good fit for your organisation, our frequently asked questions should help.

What is TRiM and how does it work?

TRiM stands for Trauma Risk Management. It’s a structured process designed to help organisations support their employees after traumatic incidents, ensuring early identification and support for those at risk of psychological trauma. TRiM has its roots in the Military before expanding into the emergency services, and now it is being used by organisations in a diverse range of industries. Ours include the construction, transport and logistics, and services management sectors.

What are peer support programs and how do they help?

Peer support programs are founded on the belief that individuals with similar work experiences can connect more effectively with those who have faced traumatic events. These peers are often better at encouraging others to open up and discuss their feelings, providing a supportive environment for recovery.

Who should attend a TRiM course?

TRiM courses are ideal for managers, supervisors, HR professionals, and anyone involved in health and safety or employee well-being. It’s also suitable for frontline workers who want to be part of a peer support network and have a genuine interest in supporting others. Generally, the more diverse mix of people you train in TRiM the better. Ideally you want a team of practitioners that accurately reflects the workforce to improve accessibility for all workers.

Is the TRiM course suitable for everybody?

The TRiM course is not a therapeutic space and is unsuitable for individuals with ongoing psychological issues. It is also not designed for those looking to develop counselling or therapy skills. Similar to Mental Health First Aid, TRiM trains you to provide effective support and may involve directing individuals to professional help. It does not equip you to be a professional counsellor or therapist.

What are the prerequisites for attending a TRiM course?

There are no specific prerequisites, but a basic understanding of workplace health and safety or employee support systems is beneficial. Some attendees have done other courses like Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) or other mental health courses but it is not essential. It is more important that you have a real desire to support others and a genuine interest in areas of mental health. We would also ask you to consider your role, does it lend itself to taking time out to respond to a traumatic event when required?

What will I learn on a TRiM course?

You’ll learn how to identify individuals at risk of trauma, provide immediate support, and refer them to professional help if needed. The course covers practical techniques for managing trauma and incident sites. You will explore the psychology of trauma, post incident stress education and documentation and recording; not to mention maintaining good health through self-care.

How long is the TRiM course?

The duration of a TRiM courses is two days, with a further day for those taking the TRiM manager certificate.

 What is the format of the TRiM course?

The course usually includes a mix of inputs, discussions, role-playing exercises, and case studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of trauma management and get immediate feedback to start building confidence straight away.

What TRiM experience do your trainers have?

Real-world experience is crucial for TRiM training, and our trainers have plenty. With backgrounds in the military and policing, they have been involved in and overseen TRiM responses to numerous major critical incidents. This extensive experience adds an extra depth to the course, enriching your learning experience.

How will TRiM benefit my organisation?

Implementing TRiM can lead to a more supportive work environment, reduce the long-term impact of traumatic incidents, improve employee well-being, and enhance overall organisational resilience and performance.

What support is available after the course?

We offer ongoing TRiM practitioner support, including access to an online resource hub and a TRiM toolkit, practitioner support sessions, TRiM refresher training, and ad-hoc TRiM co-ordinator support for major incidents.

Where do the TRiM courses take place?

At the moment, all our open courses are delivered online, as this tends to be more convenient for delegates and avoids the costs of travel and possible hotels. Where the course is delivered in-house then we can deliver on site if preferred.

How can I book a spot in an upcoming TRiM course?

You can book a spot on one of our open courses by contacting us directly for more information on available dates and locations.

Still have questions? Let’s have a chat

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