Program Overview

Program Overview

The Protecting Wellbeing when Working with Distressing Topics and Content (DToC) course is a world-first, online professional development program designed to help employers and employees develop an awareness of the impacts of exposure to distressing topics and content. The course aims to provide learners with the knowledge and skills to devise meaningful approaches to protect wellbeing.

Course Highlights

• The course takes a preventative approach to working with DToC.
• It draws on the latest research on exposure to DToC and protecting wellbeing.
• The course was co-created by subject matter experts, practitioners, and researchers with lived experience.
• It culminates in an individualized wellbeing plan based on continuous reflection prompted and supported throughout the course.

Course Delivery

The course is an online, self-paced program hosted by FutureLearn, structured into three weeks of learning that can be completed at the learner's own pace. The course covers topics such as:

• Understanding exposure to DToC
• Strategies for protecting wellbeing
• Planning for prevention and protection
• The impacts of exposure to DToC on individuals, teams, and organizations
• Personalized wellbeing routines
• Healthy professional relationships and working environments
• Reflective practice and its importance
• Creating a personalized toolkit to support wellbeing

Teaching Staff

The course designers include:

• Professor Jessica Woodhams, Professor of Forensic Psychology
• Dr. Amy Burrell, Research Fellow
• Dr. Benjamin Costello, Research Fellow
• Professor Victoria Goodyear, Professor in Pedagogy in Sport, Physical Activity and Health

Entry Requirements

This course is designed for anyone who works with DToC or is exposed to it as part of their work or studies. It is applicable to various professions, including content moderators, law enforcement, health and social care workers, civil servants, researchers, charity workers, and clinical and forensic practitioners. The course is online and self-paced, enabling learners to fit it around work and personal life commitments.

Fees and Scholarships

The fee for the 2025/26 entry is £100 for a non-credit short course.

Application Process

The application process involves registering interest in the course.

Ranking

The University of Birmingham is ranked 76th in the QS World University Ranking.

Duration

The course duration is 12 hours, following a continuous learning model.

Delivery Format

The course is delivered online.

Start Date

The course follows a continuous learning model, allowing for flexible start dates.

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