AC6757 - Supporting Survivors of Sexual Violence/Abuse

What will I learn on this module?

During this module you will develop your knowledge and skills in supporting survivors of all types of sexual abuse. This will include critical evaluation of key theoretical concepts underpinning the nature of sexual violence/abuse. This module is aimed at and open to those that work with adults, young people and children within the health, social care, and education setting. The module aims to develop knowledge of the factors that influence the sexual violence/abuse of children, young people, and adults. You will develop a critical understanding of legislation governing the role and responsibilities of the professional in supporting, signposting, and safeguarding people.

More specifically, in this module you will explore and learn what is defined by sexual violence/abuse and the complexity of this topic (sexual violence is a term that incorporates many different sexually violent crimes). This will include in-depth analysis of sexual violence statistics; the increased rates of disclosures following high profile historic sexual abuse case and the #metoo movement; the burden of sexual violence/ abuse on immediate and long-term health, the impact on government monies and the emotional effect on professionals supporting survivors. There will be a critical exploration of gendered based abuse and sexual violence as a continuum in society; Victim blaming and disclosure - myths, unconscious bias, and assumptions surrounding sexual violence and the barriers for disclosure; explore disclosure - whom people disclose to, response in both the social and formal setting and the impact of the response on health and wellbeing. We then go into depth regarding emphasising knowledge of the links to risk, indicators, impact, legalities, signposting. Legal & Professional Frameworks: exploring the legal considerations should the case go to court – awareness of procedure CSP / expert witness Vs professional witness / giving evidence.

Throughout the module we will also touch upon: trauma focused practice, ethical, legal, personal, socio economic, environmental and cultural considerations and frameworks; current legislation and policy regarding to sexual violence / abuse; response to public enquires and serious case review; working with abusive families; empowerment, power and relationships; self-safeguarding; professional roles and discipline guidelines, inter-disciplinary and inter-agency working; collaborative working practice, sharing of information and overcoming territorial historical boundaries. You will also explore comprehensive assessments, documentation, personal conflict issues, advocacy and dealing with sensitive and difficult situations. As part of this module, we will build on skills you will already have around communication, escalating concerns, vulnerable adults, dignity and respect. We will also explore capacity and consent in complex situations.

How will I learn on this module?

This module will take a blended approach, including tutor led learning in the academic setting and via online platforms, directed learning using on-line learning materials and work-based learning in the practice setting. As an adult learner you will be expected to use self-direction to pursue innovative learning experiences.

The campus-based sessions will be interactive with use of simulation and will be designed to encourage you to critically explore potential and experiences of sexual violence disclosure, in the light of current theory, literature and policy. You will be encouraged to learn with, from and about each other’s roles and professional perspectives, in order to promote a culture of collaboration in the professional learning environment.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will be supported by the module teacher who will guide your academic learning and assessment throughout the module. They have been involved in developing the eLearning materials and assessment exercises, will provide some of your face-to-face teaching, and feedback, supported by other staff. Details of your assessment will be introduced to you at the start of the module, and you will also have an opportunity to engage in online group tutorial support. You will also have an allocated personal/guidance teacher who will provide advice and support in relation to academic, procedural, and (where desired and appropriate) personal matters during the programme of study you have enrolled on. You will have access to 24/7 generic IT support and specific support from the programme team with any specific IT issues related to the eLearning package. You will also have access to the full range of student administration and support services offered by Northumbria University which includes library and learning support outlined fully in the programme handbook.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

At the end of this module you will be able:
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Explore past and current legislation relating to sexual violence in adults, young people and children

2. Critically discuss safeguarding issues considering the legal, ethical, socioeconomic, environmental, professional & cultural implications within the wider parameters of all types of sexual violence.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Reflect own professional role, responsibilities and boundaries in supporting and protecting children & adults.

4. Demonstrate evidence based decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Discuss and evaluate effective relationships with learners, colleagues, service users and carers to support collaborative learning in practice in order to enhance communication networks and identify boundaries required for effective team-working.

How will I be assessed?

Formative exercises
You will deliver a formative peer group teaching session in class, which will explore concepts relating to the summative assessment. Academic supervisors will engage with you to appraise your current level of understanding and appreciation of the concepts within the activity, to provide formative feedback for undertaking the summative assignment. (MLO 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)

Summative assignment

The summative assessment for this module will require a 2500-word service improvement assignment exploring your practice area regarding supporting survivors of sexual violence. You will choose a specific area of practice and critically reflect on exploring practice improvements.

(MLO 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)

Electronic submission will be utilised for submission of the reflective critique.

Summative feedback on final submission of the assessed work will be given in a structured format to inform future practice via my grade centre.

Pre-requisite(s)

Previous study at level 6.

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

During this module you will develop your knowledge and skills in supporting survivors of all types of sexual violence / abuse. This module is aimed at and open to those that work with adults, young people and children within the health, social care, and education setting. The module aims to develop knowledge of the factors that influence the sexual violence/abuse of children, young people, and adults.

More specifically, you will explore and learn: what is defined by sexual violence/abuse and the complexity of this topic; the burden of sexual violence/ abuse on health, the impact of government funding/ monies and the emotional impact on professional supporting survivors. There will be a critical exploration of gendered based abuse and sexual violence as a continuum in society; Victim blaming and disclosure, myths, unconscious bias, and assumptions surrounding sexual violence and the barriers for disclosure; whom people disclose to, response in both the social and formal setting. Legal & Professional Frameworks: exploring the legal considerations should the case go to court.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Postgraduate

Mode of Study 1 year Part Time

School Healthcare and Nursing Sciences

Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

Useful Links

Find out about our distinctive approach at
www.northumbria.ac.uk/exp

Admissions Terms and Conditions
northumbria.ac.uk/terms

Fees and Funding
northumbria.ac.uk/fees

Admissions Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/adpolicy

Admissions Complaints Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/complaints

Any Questions?

Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help. They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form.

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

Accessibility and Student Inclusion

Northumbria University is committed to developing an inclusive, diverse and accessible campus and wider University community and are determined to ensure that opportunities we provide are open to all.

We are proud to work in partnership with AccessAble to provide Detailed Access Guides to our buildings and facilities across our City, Coach Lane and London Campuses. A Detailed Access Guide lets you know what access will be like when you visit somewhere. It looks at the route you will use getting in and what is available inside. All guides have Accessibility Symbols that give you a quick overview of what is available, and photographs to show you what to expect. The guides are produced by trained surveyors who visit our campuses annually to ensure you have trusted and accurate information.

You can use Northumbria’s AccessAble Guides anytime to check the accessibility of a building or facility and to plan your routes and journeys. Search by location, building or accessibility feature to find the information you need.

We are dedicated to helping students who may require additional support during their student journey and offer 1-1 advice and guidance appropriate to individual requirements. If you feel you may need additional support you can find out more about what we offer here where you can also contact us with any questions you may have:

Accessibility support

Student Inclusion support