TLC Training Course

Tender Loving Care for a dying person

 

Tender Loving Care (TLC) Training

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Non-Medical Holistic Companionship

Whether you are a family member wishing to support a loved one, a healthcare professional looking to expand your skills or an organisation seeking to elevate your end-of-life care standards, this course is designed to bring confidence, warmth and dignity to the sacred space of dying.

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There is often still an enormous fear to speak about the "death" word due to fear and lack of understanding. We live in a society which finds it difficult to have conversations about death and dying as it can be challenging and emotional however, not talking about it can feel quite overwhelming for the dying person. Talking about dying does not make it happen any faster. There are lots of organisations offering support but we do not know they are there. Fear is overcome by understanding which gives back a sense of control.

 

​When we talk about dying in a warm and comforting way, it can alleviate fears.

It is beneficial to open up conversations with 'our friend' to be able to understand their feelings and wishes in what they want or do not want.  We listen to their choices and support in making them become more accessible.

 

Talking about death strengthens the relationships of everyone involved such as family, friends, caregivers, healthcare providers, hospices, care homes and hospitals. 

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Palliative care doctor and author Dr Kathryn Mannix explains why we should all talk about dying (via BBC) and breaking the taboo around death in her 4 minute video below. ​​

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What is a Soul Midwife?

A Soul Midwife is a non-medical, holistic companion who guides and supports a dying person to ensure their transition is a peaceful, dignified and loving experience.

Guided by the pioneering work of Felicity Warner, this practice honors the 12 Principles of Soul Midwifery. Our pledge to those we care for is to:

• Create and hold a sacred space for the dying person, whether in a hospital, hospice, or at home.

• Support and recognise individual needs, ensuring they feel deeply loved and secure.

• Respect all beliefs, whether religious, spiritual, atheist, or agnostic. We serve as multi-faith, non-denominational practitioners.

• Listen deeply, provide gentle therapeutic techniques and maintain a loving vigil.

• To "serve" our friend, rather than trying to "fix" or "rescue" them.

• Use gentle, holistic therapies (sound, touch, colour, reiki) to ease pain and anxiety.

• Support families and loved ones, offering continuous reassurance and a compassionate human touch.

 

 

The TLC (Tender Loving Care) Training Course

A Gentle, Proven Approach to Compassionate Care​

The TLC training practice was developed by Felicity Warner, founder of the Soul Midwife movement. In 2019, the course was introduced into the NHS in Dorset and was quickly recognised by the National Gold Standards Framework Team. Today, it is widely used in community hospitals, care homes and by private families.

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​My Journey: I came to Soul Midwifery in 2019 after attending a short, deeply moving course run by a wonderful therapist who had cared for her own dying mother at home. Some time later, I trained, qualified and began volunteering my skills with a "Living With and Beyond Cancer" support service run by Macmillan and my local NHS trust. Today, I am proud to share these invaluable tools with you.

 

Who Will Benefit From This Course?

TLC is a practical, loving "caring toolbox" designed for absolutely everyone.

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For Individuals & Families

• Creates a more relaxed, peaceful experience.

• Empowers families to actively support their loved ones.

• Personalises and honours individual wishes.

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For Care Staff

• Increases deep understanding of the dying process.

• Boosts confidence in providing hands-on care.

• Develops active listening and gentle touch skills.

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For Organisations

• Ensures your team is trained in an award-winning, NHS-recognised framework.

• Aligns your organisation's care goals with gold-standard holistic practices.

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​​​​​​​​​​​What Does the TLC Course Cover?

The training is delivered across three highly interactive modules:

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Module 1: Understanding TLC & The Transition

We define what Tender Loving Care truly means in practice and explore the Four Stages of Dying through a comforting, non-medical framework.

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Module 2: The Meaning of a "Good Death"

We facilitate open, in-depth discussions on what a "good death" looks like, how to advocate for a loved one's final wishes, and how to practice essential self-care as a caregiver.

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Module 3: Practical, Holistic Skills

You will learn hands-on, practical tools to alleviate anxiety and pain, including deep listening, gentle touch therapies and how to keep a loving vigil.

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Meet Your Trainers

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​In-person training days are co-delivered by myself and my close colleague, Helen James across the West Midlands area.

Together, we bring a wealth of diverse, compassionate experiences to the West Midlands. We are both qualified Soul Midwives (End-of-Life Holistic Therapists), accredited Tender Loving Care (TLC) Trainers and Reiki Master Teachers. Helen also serves as an Interfaith Minister, Funeral Officiant and Celebrant, allowing us to support you through every stage of this sacred journey.

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How the Course is Delivered

We offer flexible learning options to fit your lifestyle or organisational needs and a certificate is awarded to each attendee upon completion.

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A one day TLC workshop for a group or organisation delivered in person at your setting. (10:00 AM – 3:30 PM).​

• Designed for intimate groups of 8 to 10 people.

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If delivered by Zoom

• Designed for intimate groups of 8 to 10 people.

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Individual Workshop - In Person or Online (Via Zoom)

We want this training to feel as comfortable and accessible as possible. If you would prefer a private but relaxed in-person training, you are very welcome to join us as an individual for a one-day TLC workshop held in our own calming therapy spaces.​​

 

If this feels aligned for you, please get in touch to find a date that works.

 

Cheryl : Dudley, Wolverhampton, Birmingham and part of South Staffs.

Contact: cheryldevallreiki@gmail.com

(M) 09742 361111

 

Helen : Warwickshire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire.

Contact: helen@revhelenjames.co.uk

(M) 07801 522988

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Take the Next Step

There has never been a more important time to bring comfort, confidence and dignity to end-of-life care.

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If you would like to join an upcoming course, book a training day for your team, or find out more about our organisational fees, please contact either Helen or myself. We are here to answer any questions you may have.