Training

We offer training sessions designed to support evidence-based practice and study. Our courses are delivered virtually via MS Teams or in-person at venues across the Trust. They are offered in three formats:

1-2-1: Support for literature searching, assignments, and referencing
Scheduled: Group session advertised by the library service
Request: Ask for a group session for 3 or more participants

Scheduled sessions (S) are organised in advance by the library and requested sessions (R) are set up by teams or departments to suit their specific needs and availability. Contact the library to book a place or arrange a session. You can also use your NHS OpenAthens account to access NHS England e-Learning for Healthcare programmes at https://portal.e-lfh.org.uk/

Courses we offer:

Advanced Literature Searching (1.5 hours) (R)

Learn how to carry out in-depth evidence searches. The session will cover defining your research or clinical question, developing a search strategy, identifying suitable databases, and advanced searching techniques. It includes time for hands-on practice so attendees can experiment with their searching in a supported environment.

Evidence in a Flash (30 minutes) (S)

Participants will be introduced to the NHS Knowledge and Library Hub, an easy, evidence-based alternative to Google. The session provides plenty of hands-on practice.

(S) 15 October 2026, 10:30am – 11:00am

(S) 16 February 2027, 9.30am – 10am

(S) 9 June 2027, 11.30am – 12 noon

(S) 22 October 2027, 10.30am – 11am

Helping patients understand our jargon (1 hour) (S) or (R)

Avoid using unfamiliar terms and make accessing health services less frightening and confusing. This health literacy training session equips participants with tools and techniques they can use in their practice to communicate health related information effectively to patients and their loved ones. It can help save time, and improve patient care, patient safety, and patient satisfaction with services.

(S) 21 October 2026, 1pm – 2pm

(S) 21 January 2027, 11pm – 12noon

(S) 19 October 2027, 1pm – 2pm

Introduction to Literature Searching (1.5 hours) (S)

Take a practical approach to evidence searching. Participants will be guided through the steps of creating a basic search strategy for finding evidence. There will also be hands-on practice in a supported environment.

(S) 3 December 2026, 9.30am – 11am

(S) 23 April 2027, 9.30am – 11am

(S)1 December 2027, 9.30am – 11am

Introduction to UpToDate (30 minutes) (R)

Enhance your clinical decision making at the point of care with UpToDate. Join us for a demonstration of how UpToDate can help answer clinical questions and enhance effectiveness at the bedside or on the go.

Reflective Writing (1.5 hours) (S) or (R)

Participants are equipped with the skills to complete their own pieces of written reflection. Join in to learn how to record what you learn from events and experiences to support your revalidation or improve your practice.

(S) 8 February 2027, 10am – 11.30am

(S) 16 July 2027, 10am – 11.30am

Return to Study (1 hour) (S)

Build the skills you need to return to study with confidence. Common study challenges and strategies will be discussed as well as concepts such as essay writing, referencing, and time management.

(S) 18 September 2026, 9.30am – 10.30am

(S) 19 May 2027, 10am – 11am

(S) 24 September 2027, 9.30am – 10.30am

Study Skills (1 hour) (R)

Get practical tips to support your studies, including managing your time, studying effectively, finding evidence, and referencing correctly.

Supporting Statements Made Simple (1.5 hours) (R)

Boost your chances of success with practical guidance on writing effective supporting statements for NHS job applications.

Tackling Misinformation (1 hour) (S) or (R)

Participants will learn how to assess the quality of online health information and how to spot untrustworthy sources. We will also discuss the rise of misinformation and its impact.

(S) 22 April 2027, 10am – 11am

Theory of Critical Appraisal (1.5 hours) (S) or (R)

Develop your critical appraisal skills and learn how to assess the quality of published evidence. During this session, you’ll explore the principles of critical appraisal, understand the hierarchy of evidence, and gain an introduction to different research methods. In addition, you’ll learn how to use appraisal checklists and interpret key statistical terms.

(S) 25 November 2026, 12.00 – 1.30pm

(S) 17 March 2027, 10.30am – 12 noon

(S) 25 November 2027, 12.00 – 1.30pm

Writing for Publication (1.5 hours) (R)

Explore the benefits of publishing and learn how to choose the right journal for your work. This session offers practical strategies for planning and structuring your writing. It also offers tips for creating clear and engaging poster presentations.