Course description

Welcome to De-escalation Without Criminalising. In this course we look at why children in care, and especially Black and mixed-heritage boys, are drawn into the youth justice system far more than other children. We explore what drives behaviour, how to calm a situation before it becomes a crisis, and how to respond afterwards in a way that repairs harm rather than creating a criminal record.

Who it's for: Children's home (residential) staff, and foster carers of teenagers

What's inside:

• Module 1: The Criminalisation Problem
• Module 2: Understanding Behaviour
• Module 3: De-escalation in Practice
• Module 4: After the Incident and When to Call Police

About 11 minutes of narration, 5 interactive activities, a 10-question final quiz (80% to pass) and a printable certificate of completion. Reflects law and guidance in England as at autumn 2026.

What will i learn?

• Explain why children in care, and Black and mixed-heritage boys, are over-represented in youth justice
• Describe the national protocol and what the Children's Homes Regulations 2015 expect of you
• Understand behaviour through a trauma-informed lens, including the window of tolerance
• Use practical de-escalation skills and avoid power struggles
• Recognise how bias and adultification shape how threat is perceived
• Decide when police involvement is right, and use restorative approaches afterwards
• Receive a printable certificate of completion when you pass the final quiz

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