ALLIANCE research proposes considerations for sensory loss awareness training in Scotland
- Area of Work: The ALLIANCE
- Type: News Item
- Published: 26th July 2023
A mapping exercise carried out by the Scottish Sensory Hub reveals a mixed picture of training provision across the country.
Scotland’s national See Hear Strategy identifies sensory loss awareness training as a potential lever for change because it can help staff better support people with lived experience.
To support the development of an informed national approach to sensory loss awareness training, the ALLIANCE Scottish Sensory Hub carried out research to identify the different elements of existing provision across the country. An online survey aimed at organisations that provide sensory loss awareness training was live from 12 May to 7 June 2023. 23 complete responses were received.
The research findings show a mixed picture. In general, there is no single agreed definition of ‘sensory awareness training’, and therefore what constitutes such training is open to interpretation. Some training providers are accredited, others are not, and there is inconsistent involvement of people with lived experience in training design and delivery. Trainers themselves hold a range of skills, qualifications and experiences, and not all courses involve pre- and post-training evaluation. All providers who responded to the survey provide in-person training, and some offer hybrid options. One of the most common areas across survey respondents was in the core training components.
Based on the survey findings, and the ALLIANCE’s other insights and experience in relation to sensory loss awareness training, the report proposes several considerations. These are intended to inform the development of sensory loss awareness training in Scotland and include:
- Creation of a National Task Group to coordinate this work going forward.
- A national, tiered, training programme to reduce inconsistencies.
- A National Awareness Training Quality Framework and accreditation.
- Training that is informed by people with lived experience.
- A consistent approach to evaluation.
The research and considerations paper is available via the resource links below.
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