DA Champion training
Covid-19 response to face to face training
Due to the current lockdown restrictions, and taking into account individual needs and preferences, it is at the discretion of trainers and Local Authorities as to whether training can continue in person. Unfortunately, due to the multi-agency context of our training, we are currently unable to deliver DA Champions training online, though this is being looked into. We thank you for your patience at this challenging time.
About our training
Reducing the Risk Domestic Abuse Champion training runs through Clinical Commissioning Groups, Local Authorities and DA commissioned services. This page contains information about the role of a Champion and training opportunities, along with the link to register to become a DA Champion.
Become a Champion! (external link)
If you are an existing DA Champion and are looking to access My RtR then please click here (external link).
Roles and responsibilities
DA Champion role
In order to provide the best support for victims of domestic abuse using a joined-up approach, whilst looking after your own wellbeing, it is a requirement that as a DA Champion, you ensure the following:
- Be aware of the impact of the role and responsibilities on your current job.
- Act as an access point for DA support into and out of your organisation – but not to take on all domestic abuse cases.
- Keep up to date and access information on referral pathways and services for your local area.
- Ensure your colleagues are aware of the Champions scheme and how to contact you for guidance.
- Cascade the training in relation to domestic abuse awareness in your organisation.
- Ensure, where possible, that information such as posters, or website content, is displayed for potential victims to access.
- Attend network meetings and refresher training, where possible.
Agency/manager responsibilities
It is vital that Champions are supported by their organisation as a service level agreement needs to be signed by their line manager so we know that professionals are not operating in isolation, a key element of our Network model. As an organisation or manager, we request that you:
- Nominate enthusiastic and appropriate individuals who will take up this role.
- Ensure that adequate time away from their normal role will be given for 2-days of initial training and CPD sessions.
- Support any ongoing training within your agency.
- Allow the Champion to be used as an ‘in house’ expert and recognise the impact it may have on that person and their workload.
- Ensure that individuals are aware of the extra responsibilities placed on them by assuming the Champions’ role.
- Support and encourage the Champion with their new responsibilities.
DA Champions’ training structure and content
Our DA Champions training is built upon of 4 key sections: Awareness of Domestic Abuse; Impact of Domestic Abuse on Children and Families; Risk Assessments and Safety Planning; and the Domestic Abuse Champion Role.
The full DA Champions training covers the following topics:
- The effects and dynamics of domestic abuse
- Types of partner violence
- Complexities of leaving abusive relationships
- Power and control
- The impact of domestic abuse on children and young people
- Completing risk assessments
- Risk management
- Safety planning
- Support services available
To register your interest in becoming a Champion, please complete this form.
Upcoming training dates will be advertised on our site below, under the specific locality. You can select one of these, or go onto the waiting list where you will be contacted about newly announced upcoming dates. If you wish to book onto a training, please email contact@reducingtherisk.org.uk.
As part of our commitment to providing ongoing information and support to Champions, we encourage our Networks to hold regular meetings.
Each area runs their network slightly differently. Specific information for Local Authorities, along with training dates and structures of training modules can be viewed below:
Buckinghamshire
There is currently no upcoming training.
Milton Keynes
There is currently no upcoming training.
Oxfordshire
There is currently no upcoming training.
Oxfordshire training consists of 4 modules.
Module 1: DAU01 is a half-day DA awareness course.
Module 2: DAT01 is a half-day training on the impact of DA on children and families.
Module 3: DAT02 is a half-day training on risk assessment and safety planning, for individuals not wanting to become DA Champions.
Module 4: DAT01 is a full day DA Champion training (modules 1 and 2 are pre-requisites).
Slough
There is currently no upcoming training.
Torbay
There is currently no upcoming training.
West Berkshire
There is currently no upcoming training.
West Berkshire Council offers a one-day DA Awareness course for multi-agency professionals and community organisations and individuals. For those wishing to become a DA Champion, they complete a further day of training.
The training is split into 4 modules. Modules 1 and 2 are coordinated by West Berks Council and are a pre-requisite for the DA Champions training. Please email them to book on to the course. If you work for WBC, you can book via “MyView” on your Intranet. Domestic Abuse Champions’ training consists of modules 3 and 4.
If you haven’t already completed it, use the Domestic Abuse Champion application form to apply for this course, or join the waiting list. You will need to have complete modules 1 and 2 first.
To find out more about our DA Champions Network Model, its history, and the impact, click here.
We need your help to continue our work reducing the risk of domestic abuse. Find out more about how you can get involved!