How to Train Carers During a Pandemic

Due to the sensitivity of our work supporting people of all ages and abilities in their own homes, training carers is essential. A number of years ago, we decided to invest in our own training department so making changes to how we train during Covid 19 was thankfully within our control.

We provide a full range of QQI (formerly known as FETAC) accredited courses for care professionals and public short courses for family carers.  Just some of the topics that trainee carers have given presentations on recently, as part of training, includes Autism, Depression, Dental Care and Heart Disease. 

During Covid-19 we have had to adapt our training in order to continue the process, whilst sticking to the government guidelines and to keep everyone safe. The theory part of our training courses are delivered online, via Zoom. This allows our trainers to see each participant on screen and to answer any questions they might raise during the class.

Demonstrations and the practical elements of our training are done in person as it is critical that they are monitored and assessed by our Training Manager so each person is individually vetted to be able to work as a carer. However social distancing and protective clothing are observed at all times.

Once such training we have carried out is “Infection Prevention and Control” 

This course was designed specifically to deal with the implications of Covid 19 for both our carers and clients.

The pictures below show our carers demonstrating their practical skills in laundry segregation, following online classroom training. Practical demonstrations are necessary to do in person so they can be examined by our Training Manager. And as you can see, social distancing is observed at all times.