Managing Signs of Distress Training (BILD ACT Certified)
Studio 3's Managing Signs of Distress (formerly Managing Challenging Behaviour or MCB) course is a BILD ACT certificated de-escalation training programme designed for those working with individuals experiencing extreme stress or distressed behaviours. Rooted in over 30 years of applied research, this course delivers non-aversive, person-centred interventions using Low Arousal Approaches and safe, gentle physical skills where required.
If you support individuals in education, healthcare, or care settings, this training will empower you to prevent crisis, reduce risk, and improve outcomes for staff and individuals being supported.
Practical, Evidence-Based De-Escalation Training for Professionals and Carers
Enroll in Managing Signs of Distress Training
Course Content - Real Skills for Managing Distress
Managing Signs of Distress is a 1-3 day de-escalation training course with refresher options every 12–15 months. A Training Needs Analysis (TNA) and discussions with a lead Studio 3 Trainer will determine the duration of the course, and the specific skills taught to staff teams.
This course equips individuals and teams with an understanding of distressed behaviours, legal and ethical frameworks, and practical tools like debriefing, non-verbal defusion, and gentle physical interventions.
Day 1: Understanding Distress and Intervention
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Legal frameworks (e.g., European Human Rights implications)
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Causes of distressed behaviour
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The role of carers in escalation
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Introduction to Low Arousal Approaches
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Debriefing and reflective practice
Day 2: Gentle Physical Skills and Restraint Reduction
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Safe, non-aversive physical intervention strategies
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Roleplay and scenario training
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Avoidance techniques
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Exploring the ethics of physical restraint
Day 3: Application and Prevention
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Practical implementation of de-escalation skills
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Non-verbal communication techniques
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Practising planned escape and calming strategies
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Looking beyond immediate crisis to long-term support
Course Breakdown
Programme Overview
Course Objectives
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Increase staff confidence in de-escalation
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Foster empathy and stress awareness among carers
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Emphasise prevention over restraint
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Promote reflective practice through debriefing
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Teach lawful, ethical intervention strategies
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Reduce over-reliance on restrictive practices
Additional Support Services
Some individuals or services may require bespoke support outside standard training. Studio 3 can provide:
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Individual assessments
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Bespoke intervention plans
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On-site clinical consultancy
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Customised workshops for staff or families
Why Choose Studio 3's De-escalation Training?
Studio 3 has been at the forefront of behaviour and stress intervention training for decades. The Managing Signs of Distress course is the evolution of our original Managing Challenging Behaviour programme and offers carers, professionals, and support staff practical tools for safe, respectful crisis prevention.
Facing Challenging Behaviour or Emotional Crises?
Whether you’re a parent, carer, teacher or therapist, dealing with distressed behaviour can be overwhelming. This course provides the skills and insight to help people remain calm—and help others do the same.
Evidence-Based De-Escalation Techniques
Our training blends psychological frameworks like CBT, trauma-informed care, and Low Arousal Approaches to improve care, reduce escalation, and preserve dignity.
See the Difference in Practice
"Studio 3 has consistently delivered high-quality training and professional support to our organisation. Their team demonstrates a deep understanding of our sector and operational needs, providing tailored content that is both relevant and impactful.
The training is consistently well-structured, engaging, and underpinned by current best practice. Just as importantly, Studio 111 offers continued support beyond the training sessions, ensuring that learning is embedded and sustained across our teams.
Their commitment to excellence, responsiveness, and genuine partnership has had a measurable and lasting impact on our workforce development. We would not hesitate to recommend Studio 3 to any organisation seeking a trusted and highly effective training provider."
What Sets This De-escalation Training Apart?
✔️ Developed by Professor Andy McDonnell, behavioural psychology expert
✔️ Based on 30+ years of applied academic research
✔️ Certified by BILD ACT and approved by the Restraint Reduction Network
✔️ Personalised to your service needs (post-training needs analysis)
✔️ Strong emphasis on dignity, empathy, and non-aversive care
✔️ Suitable for staff in education, health, and social care
Managing Signs of DistressTraining FAQs
What is de-escalation training? De-escalation training equips professionals with strategies to reduce tension and manage behaviour in a calm, respectful, and non-violent way.
Who is this course for? Carers, educators, therapists, nurses, and support staff—anyone supporting individuals prone to distress.
What’s the philosophy of the course? Prevention over control. We use physical interventions as a last resort and focus on creating calming, respectful environments.
Is this training certified? Yes – this course is BILD ACT certificated and aligns with the Restraint Reduction Network standards.