4411 Professional Development courses

Course Overview This practical, one-day course is designed to equip participants with the essential skills, tools and confidence to effectively facilitate discussions, meetings, and workshops. Whether you're guiding a team brainstorming session, leading a stakeholder workshop, or managing a complex meeting, strong facilitation skills can dramatically improve outcomes and engagement. Participants will learn how to plan and structure sessions, manage group dynamics, keep discussions on track, and handle challenging behaviours—all while creating a collaborative and inclusive environment. The course combines theory with hands-on activities, group discussions, and real-world scenarios to build practical, transferable skills. Who Should Attend This course is ideal for: Project managers Team leaders and supervisors Business analysts Community engagement officers Policy officers Trainers and consultants Anyone responsible for leading meetings or workshops No prior facilitation experience is necessary. Learning Outcomes By the end of the course, participants will be able to: Understand the role and mindset of an effective facilitator Plan and design structured facilitation sessions Use a range of facilitation tools and techniques to encourage participation Manage group dynamics, including difficult participants and off-topic conversations Apply active listening, summarising and questioning techniques Create safe, inclusive and engaging environments for diverse groups Maintain neutrality and guide discussions to achieve desired outcomes Course Content 1. Introduction to Facilitation What is facilitation? Key differences between facilitation, presentation and training The mindset of an effective facilitator 2. Planning for Success Clarifying session purpose and outcomes Structuring the session: openings, transitions, closings Selecting the right tools and approaches for your audience 3. Core Facilitation Techniques Questioning strategies (open, probing, clarifying) Active listening and reflection Encouraging balanced participation Visual facilitation basics (whiteboards, templates, sticky notes) 4. Managing Group Dynamics Reading the room and adapting your approach Handling dominant or disengaged participants Dealing with conflict or resistance constructively Techniques for decision-making and consensus-building 5. Practice and Feedback Facilitated role-plays and group exercises Constructive peer and trainer feedback Personal action planning Delivery Method This course is delivered in a highly interactive, face-to-face or virtual format. It includes a blend of short presentations, group work, facilitated discussions and hands-on activities to embed learning. Inclusions Comprehensive participant workbook and toolkit Facilitator guides and templates Certificate of completion Optional post-course coaching (available on request)

Course Duration: 1 or 2 days (or modular format across 3–4 sessions) Target Audience: Team leaders, managers, project leads, HR professionals, and change champions responsible for initiating or supporting change within their teams or organisations. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the dynamics and psychology of organisational change. Apply change models to plan and implement change effectively. Communicate change with clarity and empathy. Anticipate and manage resistance to change. Sustain momentum and embed change in culture and practice. Course Outline Module 1: The Nature of Change Why change initiatives succeed or fail Types of organisational change (strategic, cultural, technological, etc.) The human side of change: uncertainty, fear, and motivation Change vs transformation Module 2: Change Management Models Lewin’s Change Model (Unfreeze–Change–Refreeze) Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model ADKAR (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, Reinforcement) Choosing and applying the right model for your context Module 3: Planning and Leading Change Assessing readiness and mapping stakeholders Creating a compelling vision for change Developing a change plan and roadmap Roles and responsibilities of leaders and change agents Module 4: Communicating Through Change Crafting key messages and change narratives Communicating with transparency and empathy Engaging employees and addressing concerns Channels, timing, and frequency of communication Module 5: Managing Resistance and Building Buy-In Identifying sources of resistance Strategies to understand and reduce resistance Building coalitions and early adopters Creating participation and ownership Module 6: Embedding and Sustaining Change Reinforcement strategies and recognition Aligning systems, structures, and behaviours Monitoring progress and adjusting plans Measuring change success (KPIs, feedback loops) Module 7: Leading Yourself Through Change Emotional resilience and adaptability Supporting your team while navigating uncertainty Mindsets for change leadership Self-reflection and personal action plan Delivery Style Interactive workshops with case studies and real-life examples Group discussions, change simulations, and planning activities Practical tools and templates for immediate workplace use Course Materials Provided Participant workbook Change management templates (e.g. stakeholder map, change comms plan) Change models quick reference guide Personal action plan template Optional Add-ons Custom case study based on your organisation’s current change program Post-course coaching or implementation support Manager toolkit for cascading change conversations

Course Duration: 1–2 days (or modular format across 3–4 sessions) Target Audience: Professionals at all levels seeking to improve workplace communication, strengthen relationships, and increase collaboration and influence. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Communicate clearly and confidently in a range of professional situations. Adapt communication styles to suit different audiences and contexts. Build strong interpersonal relationships using emotional intelligence. Navigate difficult conversations and resolve conflict effectively. Enhance active listening, feedback, and assertiveness skills. Course Outline Module 1: Foundations of Communication The communication process: sender, receiver, and barriers Verbal, non-verbal, and written communication The impact of tone, body language, and intent Common communication pitfalls in the workplace Module 2: Developing Interpersonal Awareness Self-awareness and emotional intelligence (EQ) Understanding personal communication styles (DISC, MBTI or similar tools) Building rapport and trust The importance of empathy in professional relationships Module 3: Active Listening and Feedback Skills Listening to understand vs listening to respond Techniques for active listening Giving feedback constructively Receiving and acting on feedback Module 4: Assertive Communication Passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive vs assertive styles Setting boundaries and expressing needs clearly Using “I” statements and confident body language Role-playing assertiveness scenarios Module 5: Adapting Communication to Context Communicating with different personality types Navigating workplace hierarchy and power dynamics Cultural sensitivity and inclusive language Tailoring communication for emails, meetings, and presentations Module 6: Managing Difficult Conversations and Conflict Identifying sources of conflict Conflict resolution strategies (e.g. Interest-Based Relational Approach) Staying calm under pressure Structuring difficult conversations using frameworks (e.g. SBI – Situation, Behaviour, Impact) Module 7: Collaborative Communication in Teams The role of communication in high-performing teams Group dynamics and psychological safety Facilitating discussions and encouraging contribution Virtual communication best practices Delivery Style Engaging facilitation with practical exercises Role-plays, group discussions, and real-life scenarios Self-reflection activities and personal action planning Assessment and Outcomes Participation in interactive activities Completion of a communication skills self-assessment Development of a personalised communication improvement plan Course Materials Provided Participant workbook and slides Communication style diagnostic tool (optional) Templates for feedback and conversation planning Follow-up resources and reading list

COMPLIMENTARY EQ-i 2.0/EQ360 REFRESHER SESSIONS We're offering regular sessions throughout the year to our EQi/EQ360 practitioners with the aim of helping you feel more confident using the assessment with your clients and colleagues. These sessions will allow you to brush up on your skills and ask any questions you may have about the tool!

Change and uncertainty - staying resilient in a shifting landscape Facilitated by Claire Warner Charity Culture, Wellbeing & Leadership Specialist Aimed at those working in fundraising and marcomms roles in UK hospices - - - Change is inevitable - but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Whether it’s shifting targets, new team structures, or sector-wide challenges, hospice fundraisers are constantly navigating uncertainty. This interactive workshop will help you: ✅ Understand why change feels hard—and how to make it easier ✅ Identify what’s in your control (and let go of what’s not) ✅ Build resilience and confidence in uncertain times With practical strategies, group discussions, and real-world tools, you’ll leave feeling more in control, no matter what’s ahead. - - - Claire Warner (she/her) is a Charity Culture, Wellbeing & Leadership Specialist. Before developing this specialism, Claire had 19 years working in the charity sector, including 10 years in Director / Senior Leader roles. But it was a period of significant unwellbeing (breast cancer) that led Claire to the career change. And it was in conducting a large piece of research into sector wellbeing, that Claire recognised this significant gap in provision and went on to create Lift. In 2020, Claire won the Best Digital Leader Award at the Social CEO Awards for her wellbeing work during the pandemic. In 2021, she curated the first Charity Workplace Wellbeing Summit and was named as one of Charity Times Magazine’s 20 Pandemic Pioneers. Claire lives in rural Lancashire with her husband, their two daughters, Rowan the dog and horses Maddie and Bernie.

Training and networking day for those working in community, corporate, challenges & events roles in UK hospices: FREE for HIGN members £25 fee for non-members (or commitment for your hospice to take organisational membership - you MUST have your line manager's approval before booking if you are a non-member) 10am: Arrival & refreshments 4pm: Close Lunch will be provided at no extra charge, please specify if you have any dietary requirements when booking The day will NOT be online or recorded so that people feel more comfortable openly sharing.

Supporting your team - a manager's guide Facilitated by Claire Warner Charity Culture, Wellbeing & Leadership Specialist Aimed at managers | heads of | directors working in fundraising and marcomms leadership roles in UK hospices Please only sign up for this session if you have line management responsibility - - - Managing a team of fundraisers isn’t just about hitting targets - it’s about keeping your people motivated, engaged, and well-supported. Hospice fundraising comes with unique pressures, and as a manager, you play a crucial role in helping your team navigate them. This practical, interactive workshop will help you: ✅ Recognise the early signs of stress and burnout in your team ✅ Create a culture of support, resilience, and psychological safety ✅ Implement strategies to balance high performance with team wellbeing With real-life examples, discussion, and actionable takeaways, you’ll leave with the tools and confidence to be a stronger, more effective leader for your fundraisers. - - - Claire Warner (she/her) is a Charity Culture, Wellbeing & Leadership Specialist. Before developing this specialism, Claire had 19 years working in the charity sector, including 10 years in Director / Senior Leader roles. But it was a period of significant unwellbeing (breast cancer) that led Claire to the career change. And it was in conducting a large piece of research into sector wellbeing, that Claire recognised this significant gap in provision and went on to create Lift. In 2020, Claire won the Best Digital Leader Award at the Social CEO Awards for her wellbeing work during the pandemic. In 2021, she curated the first Charity Workplace Wellbeing Summit and was named as one of Charity Times Magazine’s 20 Pandemic Pioneers. Claire lives in rural Lancashire with her husband, their two daughters, Rowan the dog and horses Maddie and Bernie.

Resilience, stress and boundaries - essential skills for fundraisers Facilitated by Claire Warner Charity Culture, Wellbeing & Leadership Specialist Aimed at those working in fundraising and marcomms roles in UK hospices - - - Fundraising is tough. It’s emotionally demanding, fast-paced, and often unpredictable. To keep going, you need more than passion—you need resilience, stress management, and strong boundaries to protect your wellbeing. Join us for this interactive, practical workshop. You’ll learn: ✅ How to build resilience and stay steady under pressure ✅ The signs of stress and quick strategies to manage it ✅ How to set and maintain boundaries to prevent burnout This session isn’t just theory - we’ll share real-life tools, group discussions, and practical exercises to help you navigate the challenges of your role with confidence. - - - Claire Warner (she/her) is a Charity Culture, Wellbeing & Leadership Specialist. Before developing this specialism, Claire had 19 years working in the charity sector, including 10 years in Director / Senior Leader roles. But it was a period of significant unwellbeing (breast cancer) that led Claire to the career change. And it was in conducting a large piece of research into sector wellbeing, that Claire recognised this significant gap in provision and went on to create Lift. In 2020, Claire won the Best Digital Leader Award at the Social CEO Awards for her wellbeing work during the pandemic. In 2021, she curated the first Charity Workplace Wellbeing Summit and was named as one of Charity Times Magazine’s 20 Pandemic Pioneers. Claire lives in rural Lancashire with her husband, their two daughters, Rowan the dog and horses Maddie and Bernie.

Sharing and networking session to discuss in memory giving: funeral donations, tribute funds, memory trees / gardens, and any other related areas. This session won’t cover Light up a Life as we host several sessions a year on that topic. THIS SESSION WILL NOT BE RECORDED Session aimed at those working in supporter care, individual giving, in memory

Annual General Meeting THE MEETING WILL BE RECORDED FOR NOTE TAKING PURPOSES ONLY