Alternative Futures Group steps up its pro-active approach to training

In an innovative 'Train the Trainers' programme, eleven managers undertook an intensive Pro-active Approach to Conflict course run by Space Training and accredited under the BILD Physical Interventions Accreditation Scheme.

Carol Toner, Learning and Development Manager tells us more: "we were selected through a rigorous process which not only looked at our experience, although as a group we have over 200 years combined knowledge, but also our personal attitudes and our personalities. Most found the selection process very testing and for some it was their first experience of completing and delivering a presentation. The 5 day Pro-active Approach to Conflict course examined the philosophy behind the approach, people’s beliefs as well as the physical techniques used to keep people safe".

SPACE trainer, Steven Jones commented that "the range of experience demonstrated by Alternative Futures Group’s trainers during their training was immense. Not just in academic ability, but their instinctive ability to understand and identify the genuine reasons for conflict, then to communicate this understanding in a straightforward manner.

Some of the main themes of the training can be quite daunting -examining what motivates you, what makes you pull out the stops even when you feel tired or not on form, what are your essential beliefs? Also how one deals with fear and how we can use fear as a positive. The Alternative Futures Group staff displayed the courage and determination that gives confidence in their success in developing an effective and professional culture, encouraging an approach to people’s distress that shines with humility".

How will we use this valuable piece of learning?

Carol describes the plans for the future: "We are going to work with staff teams across the organisation to ensure that everyone works to a positive culture which will serve to empower the people we support as well as the staff working alongside them. We will do this by engaging with groups of staff to promote pro-active working practices, where we not only focus on service users but also on ourselves, questioning our own behaviour and how it may present to others around us".

Susan James, Head of Learning and Development, said "at Alternative Futures Group, most of the learning and development programmes delivered to staff are interactive where individuals are encouraged to come along with an open mind and be willing to share their experiences, knowledge and skills and where all contributions are valued. This is another good example of the organisation’s approach to developing individuals to challenge and, if need be, change, peoples’ perceptions of those who use our services. Congratulations go to all involved!"