Doula Training – Diploma
The Diploma in Living Well Dying Well Person-Centred Approach to Death and Dying builds on the the 4 topics of the Foundation course (taught separately), and introduces an additional 6 topics, exploring:
- Complementary and Creative Approaches at End of Life
- Working with Spirituality at End of Life
- End of Life Person-Centred Practice
- Understanding Relationship Dynamics at End of Life
- Interpersonal Skills for Supporting End of Life
- Personal and Professional Development for End of Life Doula Practice
The Diploma is delivered over four modules, which can be taken as a full diploma 'track' or as separate modules. Please note there must be a minimum of 16 weeks between modules to allow for assessment, marking and building voluntary hours.
All modules are externally monitored and certified by Crossfields Institute, and the full diploma has been awarded the Crossfields Institute Quality Mark.
Module 1
Module 1 focuses on the importance of relationships; between doula and client, between family members and professionals, as well as our relationship with ourselves.
Module 2
We focus on the experience of the dying person and how palliative care is currently practiced. We explore the role of the doula in bringing comfort and alleviating suffering.
Module 3
Understanding the clients’ needs in order to fulfil their wishes and aims for the end of their life in the context of the asset based compassionate communities approach. We also explore ethics and standards of practice in the doula role.
Module 4
Here we understand the role of spirituality, the soul’s journey and the importance of compassionate presence at the end of life and in the care of the body after death. We also explore healthy boundaries and the importance of the beginnings and endings of a doula-client relationship.
Course Structure
Our Diploma Training is structured into four modules, grouped into tracks to support a clear and supportive learning progression. While many participants choose to follow a complete track, this is entirely optional, and modules can also be taken individually (but sequentially) to suit your circumstances. Tracks may be offered fully online, fully face to face, or as a blended option (with two modules face to face and two online), allowing flexibility in how you participate. As delivery methods vary, please check the format of each module carefully before booking to ensure it meets your preferences and availability.
Each module is comprised of 8 sessions of approximately 3.5 hours. Some sessions are held back to back, making a full training day, other sessions are held as 3.5 hour blocks; hosted live over Zoom in the morning, afternoon or evening (please check each modules description before booking to make sure you are able to attend all sessions).
When are the next Diploma courses?
Planning your progression
We run approximately three diploma tracks a year, which span over a period of 18 months. This will include at least one fully face to face track and one fully online track. Our Diploma modules are currently delivered weekdays only.
Booking your place
There are two options when booking the diploma: you can either book module by module, or book a full diploma track in advance.
Track Discount
Receive a £40 discount on modules 2 - 4 when booking the full track alongside your Module 1
Guaranteed Registration
Ensure your place on all modules, without the worry of missing out
Relationship building
Progress through the modules with the same group of connected individuals.
Flexibility
Complete the modules when they fit in with your schedule
You may not be able to secure a place on a training module if it is fully booked. Diploma modules are only scheduled 2 - 3 times per year.
Assessment and certification
The Diploma certificate is awarded to individuals who complete Modules 1–4 and successfully complete all required coursework, which is assessed and verified by our external assessors. Assessment includes written reflections, learning activities, and evidence of developing understanding and practice in line with the values and scope of the End of Life Doula role.
Alongside the taught modules, participants are expected to take responsibility for gaining practical experience independently as their learning progresses. Participants should therefore be prepared to actively seek out opportunities for experiential learning, supported by reflective practice and suitable mentoring. Certification reflects both successful completion of assessed coursework and an ongoing commitment to developing safe, boundaried, and responsible practice within the community.
Prerequisites
The diploma modules are only available to those who have completed the Foundation training and have been awarded a Progression Statement. Please refer to 'Progression to Diploma' section of the website. We advise those who have had a significant bereavement within the last 18 months to contact us prior to booking so we can work with you to ascertain the most suitable time for you to begin your training.
Upcoming Diploma Tracks
Face to Face
Online
