Training and Development

Jackie and I are working together on a new Training and Development Plan. The plan has been approved and we have started to implement it.  We have already delivered learning events which are open to all Social Care Alba staff and service users.

We are keen that not only staff but service users and their families have access to a range of training workshops and e-learning.  For more information please contact the office who will be happy to help.

The plan has a number of different areas such as:

1. Induction

It is envisaged that the current 16 week induction program be integrated with training courses including:

·         Introduction to Social Care / Social Care Alba

·         Moving and handling

·         Infection control

·         Role of the key worker, including recording and report writing

·         Assessment, including risk assessment

·         Safeguarding of vulnerable adults

·         Challenging behaviour

·         Safe administration of medicines

·         Nutrition and diet

2. Supporting Professional Development

It is suggested that various knowledge based course be made available for all staff including:

·         Understanding stroke

·         Working with people with dementia

·         Understanding challenging behaviour

·         Abuse and adult protection

·         Loss, change and bereavement

·         Palliative care

3. Supporting Personal Development

We felt that it was also important to support personal development, especially in the area of dealing with the effects of stress and importantly preparing and explaining to staff members the SVQ process. So we came up with:

·         Introduction to SVQ

·         Assertiveness and Stress Management

·         SVQ 3 Health and Social Care

Staff undertaking an SVQ will have on site tutor support as well as having a dedicated area of the forum for peer support.

4.  Supporting Managers

We felt that learning and development should be "for all" so we included this management orientated course:

·         Management Skills including Supervision

·         Disciplinary and Grievance best practice

·         SVQ 4 Management and Leadership

5.  Learning Support for All

There are a number of other ways that you can expand your learning and gain support.  These include:

·         Use of our resource library

·         Participation in our forum

·         Linking with our Professional Advisors

·         Accessing our e-learning courses via our website

Hopefully this now gives a flavour of what we envisage in terms of learning and development opportunities for all staff, service users and families.  If you would like to learn more, share your ideas, get access to our forum, or attend a training session then please contact the office who will be pleased to help you.

Stuart and Jackie