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Army Personnel Services Group - Visiting Officer Course - BH701

Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre
Leadership
3 days - residential
Shrivenham

About this course

AS A PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE, THE DEFENCE ACADEMY HAS POSTPONED THIS COURSE IN LIGHT OF COVID-19.  PLEASE CONTINUE TO CHECK THIS PAGE FOR RESCHEDULED COURSE DATES.

This course is designed to remove the natural inhibitions and awkwardness experienced when engaging with the bereaved and to provide the confidence and knowledge necessary to support the next of kin.  There are 4 elements:
  • policy and process to provide the background of where casualty management sits within the Army organisation and infrastructure
  • an overview of the practical functions; such as investigations, funerals, finance issues, visiting hospitals, personal possessions and repatriations
  • soft skills; communication skills, loss and bereavement, the grieving family, coping with stress and looking after yourself
  • a 15-20 minute role-play day with professional actors, the aim of which is to give students practice in establishing a rapport with next of kin, followed by 15-20 minutes critique and discussion

What you will learn

You will learn:
  • an understanding of the Tri Service policy and Army procedures; knowing where to find the relevant documents which underpin this information
  • guidance on good communication skills and the importance of being a good listener, appreciating the value of silences
  • an understanding of loss and bereavement including the varied reactions to grief with an insight in to academic theory
  • the role of the chaplain and other key personnel who are available to assist both yourself and the family you are supporting
  • stress awareness and looking after yourself

How will this course help my career?

This is not a career course but is integral to the military covenant and part of the moral component of fighting power.  It highlights how you can expect your own families to be supported by the system in general and the Visiting Officer in particular, should anything happen to you.  Despite the fact that only 5-10% of those attending are volunteers, the majority agree that the 3 days provide the confidence and an excellent base from which  to begin if appointed as a Visiting Officer.  Feedback from debrief workshops strongly indicate that the majority find the experience of being a Visiting Officer most rewarding.

This course is particularly suitable for those working in the welfare environment.

Security and restrictions

Attendees are nominated or can seek nomination by contacting APSG.

Before you attend

You will need to have attended the Casualty Notification Officer’s course and demonstrate a compassionate, understanding and sensitive personality.

Can I attend this course?

This course is suitable for the following type(s) of applicant.
  • Internationals
  • Military

How will I learn?

Classroom

How will you be assessed?

Formative assessment will occur through role play scenarios on the final day.