On-the-Job Training for Residential Staff

Abstract

The introduction of the National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) for care staff should mean existing skills are formally recognised. Managers should look to develop their training role and investigate novel training methods. Four areas for examination are discussed. (1) Shift planning which we believe is valuable but shift plans are a tool for staff to use, not a book of rules. Direct management intervention is essential. (2) Household & community activities are the key to successful residential services and staff training is a priority. Three main training methods are considered: role-modelling, verbal instruction, taking staff aside. (3) Teaching skills—whilst preparation can be done in staff meetings etc., actual teaching is truly ‘on-the-job’. Demonstration is often invaluable. Direct observation and feedback is paramount. (4) Coping strategies—challenging behaviour is an obstacle to participation. Staff find it hard to value clients who behave inappropriately. Managers should ‘drop everything’ to support staff in these situations.