The Professional Diploma in Intermediary Studies is a postgraduate training programme which will qualify CORU-registered health and social care practitioners to work as Registered Intermediaries in the Irish Justice System. The programme includes four modules delivered across the School of Law and the School of Allied Health. The curriculum has been developed using best practice guidelines from other jurisdictions, featuring case-based inquiry methods and real-life scenarios. The programme has a practical skills-based component which ensures those who qualify have the competencies to provide intermediary interventions as part of all aspects of the legal process for both vulnerable witnesses and defendants in the context of Irish legislation.
In following the best practice blended learning approach which has been adopted internationally, the programme modules include a combination of online and face-to-face tutorials using the state-of-the-art clinical facilities located on the University of Limerick's campus. This blended approach combines educational methods that encourage self-directed learning, reflection on personal experience, critical thinking and access to online resources. Students will be presented with practice dilemmas to develop their skills in relation to professional conduct & ethical issues which may arise within their role as intermediaries. Importantly, this training will be designed and delivered in contemplation of the experience and insights of a range of key criminal justice stakeholders at both a national and international level.
Individuals who complete the programme are fully recognised by the Department of Justice as eligible to be placed on a panel from which the courts can draw from to work as a Registered Intermediary in the Republic of Ireland.