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
- Tuesday 26 May 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Wednesday 17 June 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Tuesday 14 July 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Tuesday 4 August 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
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
- Tuesday 12 May 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Tuesday 9 June 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Wednesday 1 July 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Tuesday 21 July from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
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
- Wednesday 27 May 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Wednesday 15 July 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Tuesday 28 July 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Tuesday 11 August 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
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
- Tuesday 19 May 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Wednesday 10 June 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Tuesday 30 June 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Tuesday 4 August 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
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
- Wednesday 3 June 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Tuesday 14 July 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Tuesday 5 August 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Tuesday 11 August 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
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
- Wednesday 20 May 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Tuesday 16 June 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Wednesday 8 July 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Tuesday 28 July 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
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
- Tuesday 19 May 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Wednesday 27 May 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Wednesday 8 July 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Wednesday 29 July 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
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
- Tuesday 26 May 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Tuesday 21 July 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
- Wednesday 12 August 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
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
- Tuesday 2 June 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Tuesday 7 July 2026 from 1.30-3.45pm via MS Teams
- Wednesday 22 July 2026 from 9.30-11.45am via MS Teams
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Co Durham & Darlington Primary Mental Health Team
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.
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.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with adults, children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 11 June 2026 from 1.30-4.00pm at Tandem - click on following link for more information: 11 June flyer - Not Optional [pdf document]
- 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.
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.
Target Audience
Any practitioner working with adults, children & young people in Darlington
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 11 June 2026 from 10.00-12.30pm at Tandem - click on following link for more information: 11 June flyer - Still Fighting [pdf document]
- 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
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
- Wednesday 20 May 2026 from 10.00-12.00pm in Room 406, Town Hall
- 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
Contingency Planning
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
Contingency planning should form a core part of the care and support planning process. This session will explore what to consider when building effective contingencies, along with practical hints and tips to support planning for both predictable and unpredictable situations.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - All Adult Teams (ACT, OAIT, Mental Health, Learning Disability, Safeguarding, OT, RIACT, ASYE/Apprentices)
Dates, Times & Venues
- Wednesday 13 May 2026 from 9.30-12.00pm in Room 406, Town Hall
- Thursday 21 May from 9.30-12.00pm in Committee Room 2, Town Hall
- Wednesday 27 May 2026 from 9.30-12.00pm in Room 411, Town Hall
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Robbie Irwin, Quality & Practice Lead, 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 - Social Workers in particular but open to any who feel they would benefit from the training such as ASYEs
Dates, Times & Venues
- Tuesday 30 June 2026 from 10.00-4.00pm at Tandem
- Tuesday 1 December 2026 from 10.00-4.00pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Nicola White, Erin Dobing, Autumn Strike, Law & Governance
Cultural Humility & Anti-Racist Practice Workshop
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
Cultural humility is a stance that attempts to understand peoples’ identities in relation to race and ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, class and socioeconomic status, education, and social needs. This workshop will support participants to consider what cultural humility and anti-racist practice means to them in the context of their professional identities and organisations. Through the engagement of critical thinking and open discussion, participants will work towards being more attuned to addressing racism, marginalisation and exclusion on the personal, team and organisational level. As a result of attending this workshop participants will be able to:
- share concepts, strategies and tools to harness the power of diversity, so all recipients of services, feel welcome, respected and can thrive
- have greater understanding of how to address racism, marginalisation and exclusion on personal, team and organisational levels
- reflect on their individual journeys of cultural humility
- recognise the critical nature of allyship.
*Please note you will be required to create an online account with Research Practice in order to access workbooks & resources.
Target Audience
DBC Only - Children & Adults Services
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 2 July 2026 from 9.30-3.30pm via MS Teams
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Research in Practice
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
Epilepsy & Rescue Medication (Level 2)
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This half day session will cover the following topics:
- how to recognise the signs & symptoms of the different forms of the condition
- underpinning knowledge of the common triggers for seizures
- diagnostic procedures – the signs to look for & what they signify
- guidelines for the ongoing treatment of Epilepsy
- the medicines used for the treatment of Epilepsy & their side effects and contraindications
- the kinds of complementary therapies used in the treatment of Epilepsy & how they can help
how & when to record seizures properly - effective First Aid for Epilepsy patients
- an understanding of “Status Epilepticus”.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Day Services Staff
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 18 June 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm or 1.30-4.30pm at Tandem
- Wednesday 24 June 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm or 1.30-4.30pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Curve Learning & Development
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:
- Monday 11 May 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Wednesday 27 May 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Wednesday 10 June 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Friday 26 June 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Monday 27 July 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- Monday 10 August 2026 from 9.00-3.30pm in the Town Hall
- 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
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
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
- Tuesday 19 May 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm at Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
- Wednesday 17 June 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm at Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
- Tuesday 14 July 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm at Newcastle Building Society, 7/8 Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5PW
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]
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 14 May 2026 from 9.30-4.00pm at Medequip, Unit 3, Beaumont Square, Aycliffe Industrial Park, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6XN - FULLY BOOKED
- 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
- Wednesday 17 June 2026 from 9.30-3.00pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Joseph Robb, Head of Service - Looked After Children & Resources
Neurodivergence - Supporting Children & Young People
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
This course will help participants:
- develop a foundational understanding of neurodivergence
- recognise how neurodivergence can influence communication, behaviour & relational needs
- apply adaptive communication strategies to build trust & connection
- create a more neuro-inclusive home environment that supports sensory & emotional needs
- understand the intersection of trauma & neurodivergence & its impact on presentation
- integrate trauma-informed & neuro-affirming approaches in everyday care
- navigate & contribute effectively to professional networks supporting the child
- identify & access community-based neurodivergent support for children & carers
- enhance reflective practice to support ongoing learning and development.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Foster Carers & spare places available to staff working with C&YP
Dates, Times & Venues
- Tuesday 19 May 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm via MS Teams
- Wednesday 3 June 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm via MS Teams
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
Neuro Inclusive Solutions
Recording Procedures
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
- Understand the importance of accurate & timely case recording
- Apply strength-based & defensible recording practices
- Align recording with Social Work England Standards & Care Act principles
- Introduction to the new recording standards model: PDPE
Target Audience
Adult Social Workers, OT's, Senior Social Workers/OT's (managers not required)
Dates, Times & Venues
- Friday 5 June 2026 from 9.15-1.15pm at Tandem
- Monday 22 June 2026 from 9.15-1.15pm at Tandem
- Wednesday 8 July 2026 from 9.15-1.15pm at Tandem
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 - Social Workers in particular but open to any who feel they would benefit from the training such as ASYEs
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 25 June 2026 from 9.30-12.30pm at Tandem
- Thursday 25 June 2026 from 1.30-4.30pm at Tandem
- 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
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
- Wednesday 17 June 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem (Morton Park Business Training Centre) - FULLY BOOKED
- Monday 6 July 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem (Morton Park Business Training Centre)
- Monday 10 August 2026 from 9.30-4.30pm at Tandem (Morton Park Business Training Centre) (The Links Only)
- 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) - FULLY BOOKED
- 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.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Foster Carers & spare places available to staff working with C&YP
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 9 July 2026 from 9.30-2.00pm at Tandem
- Wednesday 9 September 2026 from 9.30-2.00pm at Tandem
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
The Centre of Excellence in Child Trauma
Understanding Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Aims & Objectives/Learning Outcomes
By the end of the session participants will be able too:
- understand FASD and what causes it
- recognise key signs & presentation
- understand the impact on behaviour & daily functioning
- how to apply FASD-informed strategies in care settings
- work effectively within a multi-agency context
- reflect on current practice & attitudes
- recognise overlap with other conditions.
Target Audience
DBC ONLY - Foster Carers & spare places available to staff working with C&YP
Dates, Times & Venues
- Thursday 4 June 2026 from 10.30-12.30pm via MS Teams
- Wednesday 8 July 2026 from 10.30-12.30pm via MS Teams
Cost
Free
Facilitator/s
The Accidental Expert
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 14 May 2026 from 10.00-12.30pm at Tandem - FULLY BOOKED
- 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 4 June 2026 from 10.30-1.30pm via MS Teams
- Tuesday 21 July 2026 from 10.30-1.30pm via MS Teams
- 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]