Courses
Anxiety, Worries, Fears & Phobias Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session will enhance awareness of anxiety, worries, fears & phobias with children & young people. Some of the elements in the training will be to try & identify & explore anxiety, worries, fears & phobias that can be present in children & young people. It will raise awareness of & clarify the difference between different types of anxiety. The session will also highlight self help/supportive strategies & resources & pathways for appropriate referrals. The trainers use a variety of learning approaches & welcome information & anonymous case discussion to improve & develop the practice of course attendees.
Target Audience
Professionals working with children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
Anxious About School
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session will raise awareness of emotionally based school avoidance. It will look at potential causes & explore options for supporting families.
Target Audience
Professionals working with children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
Attachment Difficulties Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session will enhance awareness of the subject of attachment in children & young people. Some of the elements in the training will be to define attachment difficulties in children & young people & identify the behaviours associated with it alongside the factors that influence the development of secure or insecure patters of attachment. The trainers use a variety of learning approaches & welcome information & anonymous case discussion to improve & develop the practice of course attendees.
Target Audience
Professionals working with children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
Attentional Difficulties (ADHD/ADD) Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session will enhance awareness of the subject of attentional difficulties in children & young people. Some of the elements in this training will be to gain an understanding of attentional difficulties & consider the core symptoms. The training will also give an understanding of ADHD along with the assessment process. There will be an opportunity to share strategies provided by teachers & other professionals. The trainers use a variety of learning approaches & welcome information & anonymous case discussion to improve & develop the practice of course attendees.
Target Audience
Professionals working with children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
Childhood Trauma & Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This training raises awareness of the importance of recognising the sources and impacts of childhood developmental trauma including the effect on the developing brain. It identifies the symptoms & patterns of behaviour which can be seen as well as the underlying hidden needs & considers the potential longer term impacts on physical & emotional well-being. Delegates should be aware that discussing childhood trauma involves looking at sensitive & difficult information. Also Adverse Childhood Experiences are common and this training may raise difficult memories for some.
Target Audience
All practitioners working with children and families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
Deliberate Self Harm Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This half day session will enhance participant’s awareness of the use of self harming behaviour within children & young people. Some of the elements of the training are to become familiar with presentations of self harm & to develop an understanding of the reasons why young people self harm. Due to the sensitive nature of this subject an emotional opt out is available.
Target Audience
Professionals working with children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
Eating Difficulties Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session will enhance awareness of the subject of eating disorders in children & young people. Some of the elements of the training will be to define eating disorders in children & young people, identify the types of eating disorders & to understand some of the possible causes and triggers. Treatment options will also be considered & practitioners responsibilities in accordance with their role. The trainers use a variety of learning approaches & welcome information & anonymous case discussion to improve & develop the practice of course attendees.
Target Audience
Professionals working with children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
Low Mood & Depression Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This training session will enhance awareness of low mood with children & young people. Main elements will be to try & identify & explore low mood, looking at triggers & strategies to support children & young people. It will raise awareness of & explore the difference between low mood & depression. Session will also highlight self help/supportive strategies & resources & pathways for appropriate referrals. The trainers attempt to use a variety of learning approaches & welcome informal & anonymous case discussion to improve & develop the practice of course attendees.
Target Audience
Professionals working with children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
Social & Communication Difficulties Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session will enhance awareness of social communication difficulties with children & young people. Some of the elements in the training will be to try & identify some common behaviour that is associated with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) & hopefully this will raise awareness. It will identify & explore the triad of impairments: social interaction, social imagination & social communication. The training will also include some helpful strategies for better communication that would enhance the skills professionals already demonstrate to ensure further consistency and encourage good practice across all services. The trainers attempt to use a variety of learning approaches & welcome informal & anonymous case discussion to improve & develop the practice of course attendees.
Target Audience
Professionals working with children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
A Holistic Approach to Sexual Harm Prevention
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This half day session offers a focused introduction to the realities of sexual harm, including prevalence, offence types and the range of perpetrators. Participants will explore why engaging with this cohort is vital to preventing and reducing future victims. The session also outlines how individuals convicted of sexual offences are monitored and managed, the impact on their families, and the interventions and programmes available for perpetrators. By the end, delegates should feel more confident having conversations about sexual harm occurrence and be able to see value in working with perpetrators and their families to reduce victims. By the end of this session delegates will:
- understand the realities of sexual harm: prevalence / offence types / perpetrators
- recognise the importance of working with this cohort and how this can prevent and reduce victims
- have awareness of monitoring and management of people convicted of sexual harm
- have awareness of the impact on families of people with such convictions
- have awareness of interventions and programmes for perpetrators
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with children & families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Tuesday 13 October 2026 from 1.30-4.00pm via Zoom
- Thursday 25 February 2027 from 9.30-12.00pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
NEPACS
Access 27 Ltd - Teenage & Young Adult Relationship Abuse in Diverse Relationships: ‘Like Glue’
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session explores teenage and young adult relationship abuse. The theatre performance highlights abusive behaviours in a variety of young relationships, including YP with additional needs, boys and young men as victims of abuse, LGBTQIA+ relationships and VAWG. The performance also explores technology affiliated domestic abuse. Through the workshop participants will explore:
- different types of relationship abuse – identify different types of domestic abuse and the unhealthy behaviours within them including coercion and control
- healthy & unhealthy behaviours – discuss the effect of unhealthy and harmful behaviours, focussing on how these may present themselves in different types of relationships. Explore healthy relationships and identify healthy behaviours
- the cycle of abuse – The different stages of the ‘cycle of abuse’, behaviours that may present at each stage, understanding the level of control and challenging assumptions
- vulnerabilities, signs & symptoms – identifying what makes some young people and young adults vulnerable to DA, why this can put them at higher risk, and the signs and symptoms that may present if they are experiencing DA
- signposting for further support.
Following the session delegates will receive a digital resource pack summarising elements covered in the session, as well as front-line support information.
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with adults, children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 17 September 2026 from 1.30-4.00pm at Tandem - click on following link for more information: 17 September flyer - Like Glue [pdf document]
- Thursday 11 March 2027 1.30-4.00pm at Tandem - click on following link for more information: 11 March flyer - Like Glue [pdf document]
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Access 27 Ltd
Access 27 Ltd - Barriers that Trans* People Face when Accessing Services: ‘Not Optional’
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session explores the barriers to education & services that Trans* and Non-binary young people and adults face & highlights the detrimental effect that these barriers can have. The theatre performance explores barriers such as form filling, non-inclusive language, discrimination, facilities, policies and more. Through the workshop participants will:
- explore how to make your practice for inclusive for Trans* individuals discussing:
- terminology - understand the correct terminology & definitions of different terms, increasing confidence of using them in practice]
- inclusive language - identify language that is not inclusive of Trans* & Non-binary individuals & identify what to use instead
- pronouns & names – increased awareness of different pronouns, how to use them & understanding the effect of getting it wrong [and right!]
- identify the barriers that Trans* people face when accessing your services: Exploring the effect of these barriers and looking at how can we make our services Trans* inclusive.
Following this session delegates will receive practical resources relating to the workshop.
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with adults, children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 3 December 2026 from 1.30-4.00pm at Tandem - click on following link for more information: 3 December flyer - Not Optional [pdf document]
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Access 27 Ltd
Access 27 Ltd - The Impact of Domestic Abuse on Children & Young People in a Variety of Settings: ‘Right Here’
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session highlights the effect of domestic abuse on children and young people. The theatre performance explores the different ways a young person might be exposed to domestic abuse, and the effect on: home life, school life, behaviour, social life & mental health. Through the workshop participants will explore:
- different ways of witnessing DA – exploring the different ways a young person might be exposed to/and experience domestic abuse
- areas of concern – discussing the effect on education & learning, home environment & family relationships, socialisation, and mental health & wellbeing
- signs & symptoms – spotting the signs that a young person is witnessing DA
- signposting for further support.
Following the session delegates will receive a digital resource pack summarising elements covered in the session, as well as front-line support information.
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with adults, children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 17 September 2026 from 10.00-12.30pm at Tandem - click on following link for more information: 17 September flyer - Right Here [pdf document]
- Thursday 11 March 2027 10.00-12.30pm at Tandem - click on following link for more information: 11 March flyer - Right Here [pdf document]
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Access 27 Ltd
Access 27 Ltd - The Issues Impacting LGBTQIA+ Youth and Young Adult Mental Health: ‘Still Fighting’
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
A performance highlighting the issues affecting LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults mental health, exploring: ‘Coming out’ & rejection, discrimination & hate crime, education & service access, media & politics, and homelessness. Through the workshop participants will explore:
- the issues highlighted in the performance that are negatively impacting LGBTQIA+ people’s mental health
- LGBTQIA+ inclusive practice - discussing the barriers LGBTQIA+ people face when accessing services & how inclusive practice and support can help overcome those barriers
- childhood trauma & adult mental health - discussing how experiencing trauma in childhood could affect individuals in their adult life.
Following the session delegates will receive a digital resource pack summarising elements covered in the session, as well as front-line support information.
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with adults, children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 3 December 2026 from 10.00-12.30pm at Tandem - click on following link for more information: 3 December flyer - Still Fighting [pdf document]
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Access 27 Ltd
Caring for Children who Display Harmful Sexual Behaviour
Aims & Objectives
By the end of the course you will have learnt about:
- examining the role of trauma, attachment and shame within HSB
- working in a ‘trauma informed way’ using the trauma recovery model
- understanding what constitutes HSB – theory & research
- the law & sexual offending
- denial & its function
- identification & intervention
- safety planning within homes
Learning Outcomes
- improved understanding of attachment theory & development
- greater awareness of trauma, the impact it has on development & the Trauma Recovery Model
- understanding secondary trauma & how this impact carers
- increased understanding of shame, its impact on children & how to address this
- greater awareness of HSB, prevalence & the current research base
- increased understanding of denial & its function for children & young people
- greater confidence in identifying HSB & inappropriate sexual behaviour & how to intervene
- knowledge of the law, sexual offending & the consequences for children & young people
- practical knowledge & skills to complete comprehensive safety planning within homes
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
Target Audience
This training day has been developed specifically for foster carers and residential care staff who care for children who are displaying harmful sexual behaviours (HSB).
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 17 September 2026 & Friday 18 September 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm via MS Teams (both sessions must be attended)
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Lucy Faithfull Foundation
Complaint Handling (Children)
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
The purpose of this half day training session is to ensure social care staff understand the Council’s legal obligations in relation to handling complaints and have the necessary skills to investigate complaints effectively, resolving the majority of complaints as close to the point of service delivery as possible. The training will cover the law, the Council’s complaints, compliments and comments procedure(s), culture, the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman and learning from complaints.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Children's Service Managers, Team Managers & Advanced Practitioners
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 18 March 2027 from 1.00-3.00pm in Room 406, Town Hall
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Lee Downey, Complaints & Information Governance Manager, Darlington Borough Council
Court Craft
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session will consist of understanding court etiquette & also undertaking a mock trail/hearing.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Children's Social Workers in particular but open to any who feel they would benefit from the training such as ASYEs
Dates, Times & Venues
- Tuesday 1 December 2026 from 10.00-4.00pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Nicola White, Erin Dobing, Autumn Strike, Law & Governance
Diploma in Health & Social Care Levels 2 & 3 (Adults)
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
Sessions will cover the following:
- encourage communication
- engage in personal development
- encourage equality & inclusion
- principles for implementing duty of care
Staff will then choose a specific pathway relevant to their role. Qualification will take between 6-18 months to complete.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Direct care staff who work with adults on a regular basis
Dates, Times & Venues
The diplomas are run on a rolling programme & can be accessed at any time during the year. Please note this qualification is no longer run by the Workforce Development Team, please contact Learning & Skills for further information: l&[email protected]
Cost
This course is free to DBC staff who require the qualification as part of their job role
Facilitator/s
Learning & Skills, Darlington Borough Council
Domestic Abuse & Sexual Violence
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
Day 1 - Participants will:
- be familiar with the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 including definition, types of abuse and crimes associated
- know the prevalence of DA nationwide and locally
- recognise the indicators of domestic abuse
- understand the impact of DA on victims and survivors, including trauma
- develop an awareness of intersectionality and the effect it has on the experience and impact of DA
- know the specialist support services and interventions available for survivors, children & perpetrators
Day 2 - Participants will:
- know the purpose and best practice principles of targeted enquiry
- respond to disclosures safely and effectively
- understand the importance of risk identification
- know how to carry out a DASH, including thresholds and referral pathways
- know how to safety plan with victim survivors and their children
- understand the impact of victim blaming language (Jackson Katz model)
- know kind and appropriate language when talking about DA
- understand responsibilities around confidentiality, multiagency working and information sharing
Day 3 - Participants will:
- recognise the issues facing young people including online influences, incel culture, misogyny and deep fake/AI technology
- know that children are victims of domestic abuse in their own right
- understand the impact of DA on children
- identify problematic behaviours/DA within intimate relationships between young people
- recognise CAPVA and know the referral pathways and support available
- recognise non-abusive parents as protective factors and partner with them to safeguard the child
Day 4 - Participants will:
- be confident in identifying problematic behaviours and engaging those who are perpetrating them
- understand DA as a parenting choice
- understand the nature and impact of post separation abuse with a focus on stalking and harassing behaviours
- know the specialist support services and interventions available for those who are causing harm
- understand what violent resistance is and how to identify it
- know what dual allegations are and how to navigate them, including referral pathways and support available
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
If you are interested in becoming a trainer please click on the following link: Train the Trainer Flyer [pdf document]
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Children & Adult Staff (please note that although this training is relevant to Adults & Children's staff, the content covers children and is not directly designed on adults with care and support needs)
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 1 October 2026, Friday 2 October 2026, Wednesday 11 November 2026 & Thursday 12 November 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Durham County Council
First Aid Training for Foster Carers
Foster Carers in Darlington are able to access First Aid training via the following training providers:
Tigerlily Training:
Full Paediatric First Aid - This course blends 6 hours of practical training with 6 hour of eLearning. The practical day is presented at your setting on a date of your choosing (the nearest venue is Middlesbrough). Learning must be completed prior to and within 6 weeks of your practical training day.
For dates visit the website: Tigerlily Training [external website] - to book a place email: [email protected]
Course content:
- Roles & Responsibilities of the First Aider
- Assessing an Emergency Situation & Prioritising Action
- Unresponsive Casualty (Not Breathing) - Infant & Child
- Unresponsive Casualty (Breathing) - Infant & Child
- Choking - Infant & Child
- Seizures & Fevers
- Burns, Bleeds & Shock
- Anaphylaxis / Asthma
- Bites & Stings & Minor Injuries
- Suspected Fracture
- Neck/Back & Head Injuries
- Diabetes
- Meningitis
- Poisons
- Electric Shock Extreme Temperatures
Darlington Borough Council
Emergency First Aid - This 1 day course is ideal for those who want to receive training in emergency first aid and is especially suited for nominated first aiders in small, low risk working environments.
Available dates:
- Wednesday 26 August 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Thursday 10 September 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Friday 25 September 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Monday 12 October 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Tuesday 27 October 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Tuesday 10 November 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Thursday 26 November 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Thursday 10 December 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
To book a place email: [email protected]
Course content:
- Assessing an incident
- Unconscious casualties
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CRR)
- Choking
- External bleeding & shock
- Minor injuries
Help First Aid Training
Paediatric First Aid - This 12-hour course meets the requirements set by Childminding UK & OFSTED. This 2 day course runs over consecutive days & is held at a venue in Shildon. For dates visit the website: Help First Aid Training [external website] - to book a place email: [email protected]
Course content:
- Understanding the role of the first aider
- Knowing the importance of accident reporting and what should be in the first aid box
- Developing action plans for emergencies
- Conducting primary and secondary assessments of the casualty
- Performing the recovery position for infants and children
- Performing infant and child resuscitation following current Resuscitation Council (UK) Guidelines
- Treating a casualty with a head injury
- Helping a casualty who is bleeding, in shock, or has burns
- Caring for injuries to bones or soft tissue
- Assisting a casualty suffering from poisoning, bites, or stings
- Addressing eye, nose, or ear injuries
- Handling various childhood conditions
- Responding to asthma attacks, diabetic emergencies, or seizures
- Assisting a casualty experiencing an allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock, including using an Epi-Pen
Please check with your Fostering Social Worker which course is most appropriate for you to attend. All of these sessions are at a cost to the Local Authority so if you do book a place but fail to attend, you may be charged.
Food Safety & Hygiene for Catering - Level 2
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This course is accredited by City & Guilds. The module covers the following areas:
- individual responsibility for food safety
- the importance of personal hygiene
- how to keep the working area clean & hygienic
- how to receive & store food safely
- preparing, cooking and handling food safely.
Target Audience
DBC Staff - Children's & Adult Services only - it is recommended that anyone who has NOT already completed Food Safety training should complete the Train4Food e-learning module. For further details email: [email protected] If you only require a refresher then you should complete the Food Safety e-learning module through Academy 10.
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Train4Food
Food Safety & Hygiene - Level 2 (Refresher)
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This course is RoSPA accredited. At the end of the module, delegates will:
- understand the effect of food-borne illness
- be able to identify food hazards & take steps to reduce this risk
- be able to recall & implement the four Cs of food safety
- know the importance of using HACCP to comply with food safety laws.
Target Audience
DBC Staff - Children's & Adult Services only - this is available through Academy 10
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Academy 10
Hidden Sentence Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This half day session will help delegates:
- understand the impact of imprisonment on prisoners’ families
- improve understanding of the prison system
- understand the support needs of prisoners’ families
- understand the needs and wishes of prisoners’ families
- understand how to improve the coordination of services to provide more effective support for those affected by the imprisonment of a family member
- understand how to improve own practice in supporting prisoners’ families
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with children & families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 12 November 2026 from 9.30-12.00pm at Tandem
- Tuesday 2 March 2027 from 1.30-4.00pm via Zoom
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
NEPACS
Infection, Prevention & Control
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course delegates will have covered the following:
- principles of infection prevention & control including the chain of infection
- causes & spread of infection
- common pathogens
- infection control risk assessments
- standard precautions
- management of blood & body fluid spills
- safer management of sharps & inoculation injuries
- cleaning, decontamination & waste management
- outbreak recognition
- where to obtain further information, assistance & policies
- applying what you know to where you work.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
*Please note this training will start promptly at 10.00am & if you are more than 20 minutes late at the start you will be turned away*
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Cherry Stephenson, Public Health Protection Officer
Introduction to Supervision
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course delegates will:
- understand the principles & theories of supervision practice
- explore the roles & responsibilities of the Supervisor & Supervisee
- explore ideas around creating positive supervision experiences
- emotional intelligence in supervision
- define what we mean by good supervision & bad supervision
- explore reflective supervision - models & techniques.
Target Audience
DBC Staff - Any member of staff working with children, young people or adults
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 1 October 2026 from 1.30-4.30pm in Committee Room 2, Town Hall
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Darlington Borough Council
Just Checking Assessment Tool Awareness Session
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
Just Checking is an activity monitoring system which helps care professionals complete objective, evidence based care needs assessments of adults with dementia, learning disabilities and autism. This 1 hour session will look at what the system is & how it can inform assessments.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY – Adult Social Care - new members of staff or anyone who would benefit from a refresher
Dates, Times & Venues
- Wednesday 14 October 2026 from 10.00-11.00am via MS Teams
- Tuesday 9 March 2027 from 10.00-11.00am via MS Teams
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Jenna Frost, Just Checking
Make Every Contact Count (MECC)
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
The MECC approach enables you to use the many conversations you already have every day with [patients/service users/carers/families] to talk about opportunities to improve their health by addressing factors such as smoking, alcohol, diet, physical activity, social isolation & mental wellbeing. It is a whole person approach acknowledging individual social circumstances such as finance, employment, social support & housing that all have an effect on people’s wellbeing. This training focuses on enhancing your skills & confidence to have health promoting conversations, building on a person-centred approach offering very brief advice, brief interventions or signposting to support a range of issues
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with children & families or adults in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- TBC
To book a place please click on the following link: Form [external website]
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Learning & Skills
Moving Forward: Understanding Domestic Abuse
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A 2 DAY TRAINING PROGRAMME - BOTH DAYS MUST BE ATTENDED
Day 1- Understanding Domestic Abuse
This session will look at the victim & the victim's viewpoint. We will look at what victims face from the minute an incident reaches the point of reporting to relevant services and what can occur in the time between incident & intervention from specialist services. This session is going to shift the narrative around blame, around shaming victims and it is going to refocus on the language we use and the effect that this can have on victims. This session will answer questions and you will be free to ask questions you want to know about working with victims of domestic abuse.
Day 2- Understanding the Workbooks
This session will work on how to use the workbooks and share the experiences with the extremely strong people that have become victims of domestic abuse through no fault of their own. Any insecurities and worries will be ironed out so you can feel confident that you can provide the best support to the person you are working with. You will undertake some exercises from the workbook and there will be some fictional case studies to work through. You will receive a copy of the workbook to take away.
For additional information listen to our podcast: Moving Forward Project: Children's Practice Week 2025 [external link]
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
Target Audience
DBC Staff Only - Primarily Assessment & Safeguarding teams & targeted teams in Adults
Dates, Times & Venues
- Wednesday 16 September 2026 & Wednesday 30 September 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Helen Miley
Moving & Handling of People
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This 1 day training will give staff who work with people, the skills and knowledge to manage the moving & handling needs of their clients, balancing their needs with the safety of the staff. By the end of the course, participants will:
- be able to list their basic legal responsibilities when undertaking moving & handling tasks at work
- be able to identify the hazards and risk relating to moving clients which may contribute to choosing the appropriate way to move the person (personal-on-the-spot risk assessment)
- be able to list the postures to avoid that may cause vulnerabilities whilst carrying out handling tasks
- understand how to maintain musculoskeletal health and what to do if they experience an episode of back pain
- be able to demonstrate the Principles of safer moving & handling
- have the confidence to carry out techniques, based on Principles that are appropriate for their own work area, with and without equipment
- demonstrate the safe use of moving & handling equipment, including pre-use checks, currently available in their workplace.
Please note there are some online resources available on the intranet: Resources
Target Audience
DBC People Group
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 10 September 2026 from 9.30-4.00pm at Medequip, Unit 3, Beaumont Square, Aycliffe Industrial Park, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6XN (LAKESIDE LODGE ONLY)
- Tuesday 20 October 2026 from 9.30-4.00pm at Medequip, Unit 3, Beaumont Square, Aycliffe Industrial Park, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6XN (THE LINKS ONLY)
- Wednesday 2 December 2026 from 9.30-4.00pm at Foundations (FOUNDATIONS ONLY)
- Wednesday 10 February 2027 from 9.30-4.00pm at Medequip, Unit 3, Beaumont Square, Aycliffe Industrial Park, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6XN
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Edge Training / LPS Training & Consultancy Ltd
Neglect - NSPCC Graded Care Profile 2
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
The NSPCC Graded Care Profile (GCP) is designed to help practitioners spot when a child is at risk of neglect & get the right help to families earlier. The GCP2 is a practical tool which supports practitioners in measuring the quality of care delivered to an individual child from an individual carer or carers over a short window of time, & is designed to give a representative overview of the current level of care. The grades are based on observations & good quality evidence gathered during this window. All practitioners using the GCP2 will attend & pass a licensed 1 day training programme.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with children & families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Tuesday 22 September 2026 from 9.30-4.00pm at Tandem
- Monday 12 October 2026 from 9.30-4.00pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Darlington Borough Council
Parental Rights Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This half day awareness session for all those who may work with a family where a parent is estranged or separated from their children. It looks at the legalities of parental rights and the challenges and barriers parents face in exercising their parental rights and remaining an active parent. By the end of the session delegates will:
- be aware of some of the reported benefits of active parenting from both parents
- understand what is meant by parental rights & parental responsibilities
- understand the legal context of parental rights & responsibilities
- understand the barriers to exercising parental rights, particularly for estranged parents or parents in custody
- consider the support needs of people who may be struggling to exercise their parental rights
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with children & families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Friday 11 September 2026 from 9.30-12.00pm at Tandem
- Thursday 14 January 2027 from 9.30-12.00pm via Zoom
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
NEPACS
Relational Practice in Darlington
Attend the new Relational Practice Training Programme & and update your relational practice skills. The programme is over 3 full days & you should attend the days in order. Dates at a glance:
| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
| 8 October 2026 | 23 October 2026 | |
| 11 November 2026 | 18 November 2026 | |
| 10 December 2026 | 16 December 2026 | 11 January 2027 |
| 4 February 2027 | 18 February 2027 | 12 March 2027 |
Relational Practice in Darlington: Day 1 - Awareness & Language
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This full day training course will:
- explore what we mean by Restorative Practice
- recognise the importance of building and maintaining relationships, connections and community and how ‘circles’ are one of the tools used to do this
- explain the ‘Four ways of Being’ and relate these to levels of challenge and support
- consider how to use Fair Process to help decision making and involve children and families in decisions
- reflect on own practice and share experiences with others for learning
- recognise the structure of an affective statement – in relation to how we can challenge or praise behaviours
- identify the components and features of restorative language and conversations
- explore how the language we use can affect relationships.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with Children, Young People & Families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- *New Date* Thursday 8 October 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem (Morton Park Business Training Centre)
- Wednesday 11 November 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
- Thursday 10 December 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
- Thursday 4 February 2027 from 9.30-4.30pm at Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
*Please note the training room is located upstairs in the Newcastle Building Society building - unfortunately there is no lift available.
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Workforce Development Team & Practice & Quality Team, Darlington Borough Council
Relational Practice in Darlington: Day 2 - High Support, High Challenge & Circles & Fair Process
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
Part 1 – Relational & Restorative Approaches - High Support, High Challenge
This section will:
- consider the dynamics of the relationship window and supporting the needs of ourselves and others
- discuss how shame and unmet needs can impact our mental health and emotional wellbeing
- explain the structure of affective statements and how they correlate with the steps of fair process
- explore different types of challenge and how to implement them appropriately.
Part 2 – Circles & Fair Process
This section will:
- identify the properties, functions and types of circle
- identify the components of a fair process and the methods required to create one
- participate in and consider the use of problem-solving circles to create solutions.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with Children, Young People & Families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- *Cancelled* Monday 28 September 2026 from 9.30-4.00pm at Blackwell Meadows, Grange Road, Darlington, DL1 5NR
- *New Date* Friday 23 October 2026 from 9.30-4.00pm - VENUE TBC
- Wednesday 18 November 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at *Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
- Wednesday 16 December 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at *Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
- Thursday 18 February 2027 from 9.30-4.30pm at *Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
*Please note the training room is located upstairs in the Newcastle Building Society building - unfortunately there is no lift available.
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Workforce Development Team & Practice & Quality Team, Darlington Borough Council
Relational Practice in Darlington: Day 3 - Rethink Formulation
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
Rethink formulation is a strength based collaborative process to assessing, planning and evaluating our work with children, families & other professionals. It supports restorative and relational working in Darlington as part of our Practice Model. Re-think Formulation provides a unified approach to help us to make sense of things together and to develop a shared language with which to do so. It enables us to draw on multiple perspectives and to analyse information thoroughly. With a shared understanding we can create evidence-based plans that involve families and professionals working collaboratively to achieve sustainable change.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with Children, Young People & Families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Monday 11 January 2027 from 9.30-3.30pm at Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
- Friday 12 March 2027 from 9.30-3.30pm at Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
*Please note the training room is located upstairs in the Newcastle Building Society building - unfortunately there is no lift available.
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Workforce Development Team & Practice & Quality Team, Darlington Borough Council
Safe Handling of Medication Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This distance learning course will look at:
- understanding medication & prescriptions
- supply, storage & disposal of medication
- understand the requirements for safe administration of medication
- record keeping & audit processes of medication administration & storage.
Target Audience
Anyone currently working in a role where they need to administer medication in line with legislation & protocols or for those who wish to further their career and understand a role of this nature.
For more information please click on the following link: Learning & Skills distance learning and CPD
DARLINGTON BOROUGH STAFF - Please visit the intranet & search for Workforce Development - details of how to enrol are on the 'Training Course Materials' page
Safeguarding Adults & Children
For details of Safeguarding Adults & Safeguarding Children training, visit the Darlington Safeguarding Partnership Website [external link]
Statement Writing
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session will give a brief outline of the court system, statement writing, drafting of care plans, chronologies & other course documents. This will focus on evidence writing for Public Law Care Proceedings & Placement Order Proceedings.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Children's Social Workers in particular but open to any who feel they would benefit from the training such as ASYEs
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 26 November 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm at Tandem
- Thursday 26 November 2026 from 1.30-4.30pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Nicola White, Erin Dobing, Autumn Strike, Law & Governance
Strengthening Families: Restorative Practice Online Awareness Session
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
An online digital training package is available for those who have not yet undertaken the Strengthening Families Awareness Raising session. The 3 hour session has been broken down into 5 short videos which can be accessed & completed separately. The themes of the five part programme are:
- Part 1: Relationships are key
- Part 2: Living our values
- Part 3: The four ways of being
- Part 4: Making decisions fairly & working 'with'
- Part 5: Using restorative language
Target Audience
- Mandatory for DBC People Group who work with Children & Families - to access please visit the Intranet / Workforce Development / Training Course Materials / Strengthening Families
- Multi Agency staff who work with Children & Families - to access please email [email protected]
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Training package by Leeds Relational Practice Centre
Suicide Awareness & Prevention Programme (Tier 2)
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This half day workshop will explore the risk of suicide & how to have supportive conversations. Participants will be introduced to safety planning & learn how to respond effectively in crisis situations, including how to refer individuals to appropriate support services.
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
Target Audience
DBC Staff Only - Priority given to NQSWs
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 1 October 2026 from 9.30-1.00pm at Tandem (Morton Park Business Training Centre)
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
If U Care Share Foundation
Team Teach Level 1
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This 6 hour programme will look at personal safety, risk reduction strategies (de-escalation), a range of positive handling & interventions together with working on policy, documentation & legal guidance.
Target Audience
DBC Staff Only - Targeted Teams
Dates, Times & Venues
- Friday 21 August 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem (Morton Park Business Training Centre)
- Tuesday 6 October 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem (Morton Park Business Training Centre)
- Friday 23 October 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Foundations, Salters Lane North, Darlington, DL1 3DT (Foundations Only)
- Monday 2 November 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem (Morton Park Business Training Centre)
- Friday 19 March 2027 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem (Morton Park Business Training Centre)
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Team Teach
Tentacles of Trauma
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This course will help participants:
- understand why children with a history of trauma and neglect behave in the way they do
- gain a further understanding of how historical trauma is recreated in the present
- gain an insight into the internal survival world of such children
- explore how Developmental Trauma Disorder is at the root of all challenging behaviours
- discuss depersonalise behaviours
- link behaviour to unmet needs and early life experiences.
Please note that some of the training provided can be quite emotive. If you feel that you need some time out of the session, please feel free to excuse yourself from the training for a few minutes. It is important to look after yourself and your colleagues if you or they find the content emotionally challenging.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Foster Carers & spare places available to staff working with C&YP
Dates, Times & Venues
- Wednesday 9 September 2026 from 9.30-2.00pm at Tandem - FULLY BOOKED
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
The Centre of Excellence in Child Trauma
Time Management - The Business of Busyness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This course will enable learners to identify & action issues that they may have with regards to the management of their time. Key themes:
- recognising & understanding your own ‘Time Management Profile
- understanding time & the best use of time
- ‘Covey’s 4 Quadrants’
- effective prioritisation & action planning
- development of ‘Good Practice’
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with adults, children or families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Tuesday 13 October 2026 from 10.00-11.30am in Committee Room 3, Town Hall
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Darlington Borough Council
Where You Stand Determines What You See: Young Carer Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This workshop aims to provide you with a greater understanding of the experiences of young carers, and how they can be supportive effectively. The session is co-delivered by our Young Carer Ambassadors. The course will provide you with:
- a clearer understanding of what a young carer is and what roles and responsibilities they may have
- increase understanding regarding legislation relating to young carers
- an opportunity to hear from young carers about their experiences and ask them questions
- time to explore how you can support young carers in your own setting and understand what Young Carers Darlington can offer
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with children, young people & families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 19 November 2026 from 1.00-4.00pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Family Action
Working with the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller Community
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This half day session will look at the discrimination the Gypsy & Traveller community face in everyday life & the difficulties they face in navigating the world & accessing universal services. You will also explore ways to engage.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with Gypsy & Traveller families in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 22 October 2026 from 10.00-12.30pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Darlington Traveller Education Service
Youth Justice Awareness
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This session will give an:
- introduction to Youth Offending services and their structure
- an understanding of the way in which young people are assessed and how their level of intervention is decided
- an overview of the different disposals and orders which a young person can receive from Police/courts
- a mini intervention 'taster'
- an exploration of Restorative Justice and processes contained within disposals and YOS Work
- a look at welfare versus justice
- a summary of custody options for young people.
Target Audience
Darlington Borough Council staff who are interested in learning more about the Youth Justice System and partner agencies (Social Care, Police, Health, Education and Probation) with direct contact with young people
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 10 September 2026 from 10.30-1.30pm via MS Teams
- Thursday 12 November 2026 from 10.30-1.30pm via MS Teams
To book a place please email: [email protected]
For additional information click on the following link: YJ [pdf document]
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Michael Barr, Youth Justice Service
DBC Community Care Inform Licence Holders
There are lots of resources / practice guides available on CCI regarding Learning Disability including:
- how to help adults with learning disabilities develop safe & healthy intimate relationships
- how to identify & assess parents with learning disabilities, plus tips & advice on engaging & communicating with them.
- an understanding of what mate crime is, who perpetrates it & how to identify it.
- how to recognise forced marriage of adults with learning disabilities & the different way it can present to forced marriage of those without learning disabilities.
For more information visit the following website: Learning Disability Knowledge & Practice Hub [external website]
Council for Disabled Children E-Learning Modules
Council for Disabled Children is delighted to announce the launch of the new SEND Basic Awareness e-learning course. It is a freely available, self-guided e-learning tool & is intended to improve level 1 & 2 practitioners’ knowledge & understanding of the Children & Families Act, the SEND Code of Practice, the Local Offer, the graduated approach, the EHC needs assessment process & many other topics around SEND.
CDC was commissioned by senior Health colleagues in the South East to develop e-learning modules to support the SEND Health Training Assurance Framework. These modules have been developed in collaboration with practitioners, senior leaders & parent carers to meet the needs of members of staff working at levels 1 and 2.
Click on the following link for more information: Council for Disabled Children [external website]
Learning & Skills Distance Learning
Learning & Skills provide distance learning courses on the following subjects:
Health Care / Social Care
- Prevention and Control of Infection in Health Care Settings
- Safe Handling of Medication in Health and Social Care
- Care and Management of Diabetes
- Dignity and Safeguarding in Adult Health and Social Care
- Common Childhood Illnesses
- Principles of Dementia Care
- Common Health Conditions
- Principles of End-of-Life Care
- Falls Prevention Awareness
Learning Difficulties and Disabilities
- Working with and Supporting Individuals with Learning Disabilities
- Understanding Behaviour that Challenges
- Understanding Distressed Behaviour in Children
- Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties
- Understanding Autism
Other
- Understanding Nutrition and Health
- Understanding Safeguarding and Prevent
- Certificate in Counselling
- Principles of Customer Service
- Principles of Team Leading
- Information, Advice and Guidance
For further details please click on the following link: Learning & Skills
The MS Society - MS Awareness Course
A new, free online course is available for care workers & social care staff developed by people with MS & health & social care professionals and produced in partnership with Grey Matter Learning. The course explores the different types of MS, how it impacts the care people may need & how to support people with MS.
An accreditation is available from Grey Matter Learning – details are at the end of the course. Click on the following link for more information: The MS Society [external website]
Zero Suicide Alliance
Anybody can learn to save a life in under 10 minutes.
Zero Suicide Alliance teaches you how to identify, understand & help someone who maybe experiencing suicidal thoughts.
There are various modules to choose from, for more information please visit the following website: Zero Suicide Alliance [external website].
North East & North Cumbria Programme for Alcohol Studies
A comprehensive training programme to equip the workforce with the skills to prevent & manage alcohol related harm. Please click on the following link for more information: Programme [external website]