Safeguarding Training

Advanced Safeguarding Module Update (Formerly Leadership Module)
The training this autumn has focused around three Advanced Training Modules run in the region: 19 October at Elm Ridge, 22 October at Cullercoats and 13 November at Durham.

These early dates were aimed at those who completed the Leadership Module over four years ago and are due their refresher training. The format of the new course is interactive and, to enable discussion, the number of attendees on each course was limited.  Feedback to the new course has so far been positive.

If you were unable to attend or book a place on the first round, don't panic! The next set of training events will happen in spring 2019. Each circuit in the region will host at least one event, which will be run by the regional trainers. This is different from the foundation safeguarding course, which is run by local circuit trainers.

Course structure
This course is split into three parts:
1. Essential preparation (1 hour 30 minutes)
>> You need to work through the booklet before attending the main part of the course.
2. Core learning session (4 hours 30min) — this is the session run by regional trainers.
3. Handbook (a resource for further study)

Can I get a hard copy of the essential preparation material?

Paper copies of both the essential preparation and course booklet will be available at the course. An electronic copy of the essential preparation booklet will be sent to you when you book. You don't need to print anything out unless you prefer to read a paper copy. In which case, hard copies of the essential preparation will also be available to collect locally in your circuit ahead of the training.

Do I need to book my place?

Yes. You need to book your place in order to receive the essential preparation and to receive a certificate on completion. In order to give time to complete the preparation, booking will close two weeks before the course date.

How long will the course take? Can I leave early?

We have allowed four and a half hours for the course. In order to receive a certificate at the end of the course, you need to engage with all the material including the full core session and the essential preparation.

Who needs to attend the Advanced course?

All presbyters, deacons, safeguarding officers, anyone employed to work with children or vulnerable adults, people who have a pastoral leadership in the church, worship leaders and local preachers. The full list is available here: https://www.methodist.org.uk/for-ministers-and-office-holders/safeguarding/training/advanced-module-2018-edition/

I haven't yet attend the Foundation Safeguarding Module. Can I attend the Advance Module first?

No; the Advanced Module builds on work covered in the Foundation Module. Whatever role you are in, you need to attend the Foundation Module first. If you have done the foundation module more than four years ago, then you need to attend a refresher module. These are run by your local circuit safeguarding trainers. If you are not sure who these are, please contact your minister or circuit safeguarding officer.

I have already completed safeguarding training for my work or as part of another organisation. Do I need to attend?

Yes; there is currently no recognised equivalent course as the training relates to roles within the Methodist Church. Furthermore, the aim of the training is to create a culture where we are sensitive to the needs of individuals and aware of the risks present in every congregation. Within the course, there is space to share and ask questions so that we can benefit from the experiences that we all have, particularly around safeguarding in other contexts.

I can't come to the course on a weekday. Will other times be offered?

Yes. In Spring 2019, the Advance Safeguarding course will be hosted by local circuits. Across the district, there will be a variety of days offered. It is hoped that there will be something to suit as many people as possible. If you can't attend the session offered in your circuit, hopefully there will be another course nearby that you can attend.