Dysphagia & IDDSI Framework + Practical
Our dysphagia training gives your care and catering teams the confidence to prepare, test and serve food and drink safely. This full-day course combines classroom learning with hands-on IDDSI practical testing. Delivered on-site by a registered nurse.
About the course
Dysphagia training that puts IDDSI into practice
This full-day course helps you understand the IDDSI Framework and use it in everyday care. First, you cover the theory in the morning. Then you move into a kitchen to plate and test food to each IDDSI level yourself.
What you’ll cover
Full course content
Eight modules guide you through the course. First, you learn the fundamentals of the framework. Then you move on to hands-on food and drink testing across every IDDSI level.
Introduction to the Framework
- What is the IDDSI Framework?
- What is dysphagia?
- Anatomy of swallowing
- The IDDSI chart
Dysphagia
- Causes
- Symptoms
- Facts and statistics
Characteristics
- Levels 0–2 — drinks
- Levels 3–4 — Either drink or food
- Levels 5–7 — foods
- Transitional foods (Levels 5–7)
- Medication
- Thickening agents / powder
Risk Assessments
- Symptoms risk assessment
- Visitors and food
- Risk assessing choice
- Choking
Roles & Responsibilities
- Employer’s responsibilities
- All employees’ responsibilities
- Chef’s responsibilities
- Mealtime support responsibilities
Resources
- IDDSI website
- Posters
- The IDDSI app
Practical: Drinks Flow Test (Levels 0–3)
- Introduction to the flow test
- Syringe sizing
- Flow test
- Levels 0–3 results & Level 4 results
Practical: Food Tests (Levels 3–7)
- The fork drip test
- Spoon tilt test — Levels 4 & 5
- Minced & Moist — Level 5
- Fork pressure test — Level 6
- Regular / Easy to Chew — Level 7
Keep exploring
Related courses
These subjects sit naturally alongside this course — and we can combine courses into one visit.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Where is the training delivered?
All of our training is delivered on-site at your service, anywhere in the UK — we come to you, so there are no travel costs or venue hire for your team.
How long is the Dysphagia & IDDSI Framework + Practical course?
It runs as a full day – 6 hours course, delivered in one visit unless stated otherwise.
How many delegates can attend?
Up to 12 delegates per session — we keep practical groups smaller so everyone gets hands-on time.
Is there a practical element?
Yes — delegates practise the techniques hands-on during the course, guided by the trainer.
Do delegates receive a certificate?
Yes — every delegate receives a certificate on completion. We recommend refreshing every two years.
How much does the course cost?
We price every course on application, based on your dates, location and delegate numbers. Use the contact buttons below — we reply quickly with a quote.
Can we combine courses into one visit?
Yes. Many clients build a full training day from shorter courses, and we can deliver several subjects in one visit — just tell us what your team needs.
Do you only train care providers?
No. This course suits care & nursing homes, home care & domiciliary, supported living, day services, hospices. If your sector isn’t listed, ask — we’ll tailor the course to your setting.
Book this course
We bring IDDSI training to your care home
All our training takes place on-site at your care home, with pricing on application. So just get in touch, and we’ll reply quickly with dates and a quote.