Courses and qualifications
Training can take many forms, from formal classroom training, online training, seminars and conferences to work shadowing and secondment opportunities.
Below you will find some useful information on various qualification and courses that are available for our employees to take advantage of.
Training courses 2022 / 2023
We have worked in partnership with all the main trade unions (GMB, UNITE and UNISON) in the last 12 months to gain funding through the Wales Union Learning Fund (WULF), which is focussed on improving the learning and skills of employees. By working with trade unions on developing learning and skills, we will be able to encourage wider participation in training, support bespoke workplace training and continue developing our employees.
Take a look at our varied programme for the year ahead, but also please note that we may add any additional topics throughout the year.
You do not have to be a specific union member to take advantage of this training. All courses are delivered virtually through either Microsoft Teams or Zoom, and if you wish to book a place please please search for the course in the Learning section on iTrent Employee Self Service or contact Llinos Howatson llinos.howatson@denbighshire.gov.uk.
May 2022
Introduction to substance misuse in young people
25 May: 9:30am to 12:30pm
The three-hour interactive taster session, by Adferiad is tailored specifically for non-substance misuse professionals who may work with young people who have substance misuse issues or are at risk of misusing substances.
On completion, participants will have:
- an awareness of substance use/misuse among young people
- the ability to identify some key substances young people use and their risks
- an understanding of the vulnerabilities to substance use/misuse
- a basic knowledge of some harm reduction approaches
- knowledge of organisations who can support younger people
June 2022
June 2022
Ask and act group 2
6 June: 10am to 12:30pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
Mindfulness
7 June: 10am to 11:30am
An introductory session to learn more about Mindfulness together with some simple techniques to help settle the mind and relax the body. Explore how Mindfulness can help to reduce stress and meet the challenges of everyday life.
Introduction to substance misuse
13 June: 9:30am to 12:30pm
This three-hour interactive taster session is tailored specifically for non-substance misuse professionals who may work with individuals who have substance misuse issues or are at risk of misusing substances.
On completion, participants will have:
- an awareness of identifying substance misuse/Risk of substance misuse
- awareness of vulnerability to substance misuse
- awareness of basic harm reduction approaches
- knowledge on signposting
- basic tools for effective early intervention
- an increased confidence in dealing with substance misuse incidents
Coaching skills
13 June 10am to midday
Coaching has become an essential ingredient of sharing knowledge and supporting people in the workplace. This interactive and engaging online coaching skills programme is designed to help you to support others to develop themselves to achieve greater results.
Mental health for managers / supervisors
14 June: 9:30am to midday
This mental health awareness for managers and supervisors raises awareness of mental health and it explains different working practices that line managers can use to offer support to colleague enhance s. It also provides simple and effective tools that can be used on a daily basis to both their own and their employee's mental health. It will also give you the confidence in how to approach the conversation and what you can do to support.
Gambling Awareness
23 June: 1pm to 2:30pm
The awareness session will look at identifying the warning signs and symptoms of problem gambling. Looking at modern ways young people are now gambling including how they are using computer games to legally gamble online and what help and support is currently available immediately and where we can turn to for help. CPD accredited 90 minute course.
Menopause awareness
28 June: 10:30am to midday
This awareness session will explain the menopause and related symptoms, give advice on taking control of the menopause and how to manage the medical profession. Opportunities for education for all – this is not just a female issue.
July 2022
July 2022
Developing greater emotional intelligence
1 July: 10am to midday
Emotional Intelligence is extremely important to have in both your personal and work lives. It can be defined as “the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships empathetically.” People with a high degree of emotional intelligence are able to connect with people in a positive way. By having control over their own emotions and understanding and empathising with others they are highly effective communicators and influencers. Whether you are a Leader, Manager or a Team Member the development of emotional intelligence is now central to becoming a highly effective individual.
This highly practical and insightful programme will help participants to identify simple but effective actions that will increase their emotional intelligence.
Ask and act group 2
6 July: 10am to 12:30pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
Coping with challenging behaviour
4 July 10am to midday
Disruptive behaviours in the workplace can be challenging. This highly interactive course looks at various scenarios and asks “What is challenging behaviour?”, “What techniques do we need to use to diffuse challenging situations?” as well as how and when we do that.
Aspiring manager programme
5, 12 and 19 July: 9:30am to midday
For employees who have not yet undertaken their first management role but wish to prepare themselves for developing their career in this direction. A course of 3 sessions covering the key steps that you need to consider in your development journey to be able to aspire to the new level of managing people.
You must be able to attend all 3 modules and ensure you book all 3 dates in iTrent.
Gambling awareness
12 July 1pm to 2:30pm
The awareness session will look at identifying the warning signs and symptoms of problem gambling. Looking at modern ways young people are now gambling including how they are using computer games to legally gamble online and what help and support is currently available immediately and where we can turn to for help. CPD accredited 90 minute course.
Ask and act group 2
13 July 10am to 12:30pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
Ask and act group 2
19 July: 1:30am to 4pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
Focus on your finances
27 July: 10am to 11:30am
Do you know how to protect savings from future tax? How to utilise workplace benefits to make your money go further? Or even how small financial changes could potentially reduce your mortgage by years?
During the course you'll learn how to:
- manage different types of debt
- save and invest with confidence
- budget
- take steps to financial freedom
August 2022
August 2022
Confident in dealing with conflict
16 August: 10am to midday
A practical session concentrating on supporting people in resolving conflict in a confident and clear manner. The session will give tips and techniques which can be used in a variety of situations.
Planning for a positive retirement
22 August: 1pm to 3:30pm
Affinity connect deliver two different types of pre-retirement webinars that you are able to book onto. Both will be run in the medium of English, and will provide information only and will not include or constitute regulated financial advice.
Retirement might be up to 10 years away but it’s never too soon to start planning. This course is perfect for anyone thinking about retirement or already at the planning stages.
During the course you’ll learn how to:
- help you plan for the lifestyle changes ahead
- maximise the benefits of your State and workplace pensions
- make the most of your tax-free cash
- understand the income options available from your pension
- achieve your retirement goals
September 2022
September 2022
Mental health for managers / supervisors
5 September: 9:30am to midday
This mental health awareness for managers and supervisors raises awareness of mental health and it explains different working practices that line managers can use to offer support to colleagues. It also provides simple and effective tools that can be used on a daily basis to enhance both their own and their employee's mental health. It will also give you the confidence in how to approach the conversation and what you can do to support.
Ask and act group 2
8 September: 10am to 12:30pm
A half day course to increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
Suicide awareness
12 September: 9:30am to midday
This course provides participants with the tools to understand suicide and self-harm, understand the risk factors of what will make people vulnerable to suicide or self-harm, discuss how to effectively respond to suicidal ideation and self-harm and how to offer support and alternative coping strategies as well as creating safety plans.
Women and gambling-related harm
15 September: 2pm to 4pm
Less than 1% women affected by gambling-related harm reach out for support. Women tell us this is because of stigma, shame and fear of statutory services involvement. Increase your knowledge, skills and confidence to discuss and support individuals experiencing gambling-related harm. Ensuring women get the right support at the right time. Information, advice and ongoing support about how to identify gambling harms, the services that are available, and how to make a referral.
Bereavement and loss awareness
19 September: 9:30am to midday
This course aims to give a greater awareness of the impact of bereavement and grief. This awareness can then inform how to respond and support bereaved people, whether they are colleagues, clients, customers or friends and family. It will reflect on the grieving process and gain an understanding of current models that help us all understand grief and bereavement, becoming aware of the impact of loss on families, the skills which will improve how we communicate with bereaved people and develop an awareness of support and how and when to refer individuals for further support, including an understanding of the boundaries.
Wellness action planning for employees
26 September: 9:30am to midday
Ask and act group 2
27 September: 1:30am to 4pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
October 2022
October 2022
Improving team dynamics
4 October: 10am to midday
Improve your team’s dynamics by developing your own communication skills, team collaboration, and managing individual’s behaviours within a team setting
This is a highly practical programme concentrating on giving live tips and techniques to support managers/supervisors in reviewing the dynamics of the team and how to ensure inclusion of all team members.
Introduction to substance misuse
11 October: 9:30am to 12:30pm
This three-hour interactive taster session is tailored specifically for non-substance misuse professionals who may work with individuals who have substance misuse issues or are at risk of misusing substances.
On completion, participants will have:
- an awareness of identifying substance misuse/Risk of substance misuse
- awareness of vulnerability to substance misuse
- awareness of basic harm reduction approaches
- knowledge on signposting
- basic tools for effective early intervention
- an increased confidence in dealing with substance misuse incidents
Ask and act group 2
13 October: 10am to 12:30pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
November 2022
November 2022
Wellness action planning for employees
2 November: 9:30am to midday
Planning for a positive retirement
4 November: 9:30am to midday
Affinity connect deliver two different types of pre-retirement webinars that you are able to book onto. Both will be run in the medium of English, and will provide information only and will not include or constitute regulated financial advice.
Retirement might be up to 10 years away but it’s never too soon to start planning. This course is perfect for anyone thinking about retirement or already at the planning stages.
During the course you’ll learn how to:
- help you plan for the lifestyle changes ahead
- maximise the benefits of your State and workplace pensions
- make the most of your tax-free cash
- understand the income options available from your pension
- achieve your retirement goals
Managing customer expectations
8 November: 10am to midday
A short session which will supports people in communicating effectively to gain greater impact and results. Identifying expectations, options and boundaries as well as understanding the communication element of having a difficult conversation.
Ask and act group 2
10 November: 1:30am to 4pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
Menopause awareness
22 November: 10:30am to midday
This awareness session will explain the menopause and related symptoms, give advice on taking control of the menopause and how to manage the medical profession. Opportunities for education for all – this is not just a female issue.
December 2022
December 2022
Ask and act group 2
5 December: 1:30am to 4pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
Coaching others to achieve higher potential
6 December: 10am to midday
Coaching has become an essential ingredient of leadership required to produce the best teams in the workplace. This interactive and engaging online coaching skills programme is designed to help managers, team leaders and designated coaches to achieve greater results through effective coaching and mentoring practice.
This is a highly practical programme concentrating on giving live tips and techniques to support managers/supervisors in coaching effectively.
Improving team dynamics
14 December: 10am to midday
Improve your team’s dynamics by developing your own communication skills, team collaboration, and managing individual’s behaviours within a team setting
This is a highly practical programme concentrating on giving live tips and techniques to support managers/supervisors in reviewing the dynamics of the team and how to ensure inclusion of all team members.
January 2023
January 2023
Managing for the first time course
10, 17, and 24 January: 9:30am to midday
For employees who are new to the area of managing people or who are supervising people but have had no formal training. A course of 3 sessions giving tips and techniques to support managers/supervisors to work effectively with their teams in the future.
You must be able to attend all 3 modules and ensure you book all 3 dates in iTrent.
Women and gambling-related harm
12 January: 10am to midday
Less than 1% women affected by gambling-related harm reach out for support. Women tell us this is because of stigma, shame and fear of statutory services involvement. Increase your knowledge, skills and confidence to discuss and support individuals experiencing gambling-related harm. Ensuring women get the right support at the right time. Information, advice and ongoing support about how to identify gambling harms, the services that are available, and how to make a referral.
Mindfulness
19 January: 10am to 11:30am
An introductory session to learn more about Mindfulness together with some simple techniques to help settle the mind and relax the body. Explore how Mindfulness can help to reduce stress and meet the challenges of everyday life.
Ask and act group 2
30 January: 1:30am to 4pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
February 2023
February 2023
Effective time-management skills
8 February: 10am to midday
This session will look at where your time is going, identifying the ‘time bandits’ and creating actions to arrest and reform them. By understanding our individual approach and how we view time differently will create a meaningful action plan that you will commit to doing.
Ask and act group 2
16 February: 1:30am to 4pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
Ask and act group 2
28 February: 1:30am to 4pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
March 2023
March 2023
Suicide awareness
6 March: 9:30am to midday
This course provides participants with the tools to understand suicide and self-harm, understand the risk factors of what will make people vulnerable to suicide or self-harm, discuss how to effectively respond to suicidal ideation and self-harm and how to offer support and alternative coping strategies as well as creating safety plans.
Ask and act group 2
9 March: 1:30am to 4pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
Bereavement and loss
13 March: 9:30am to midday
This course aims to give a greater awareness of the impact of bereavement and grief. This awareness can then inform how to respond and support bereaved people, whether they are colleagues, clients, customers or friends and family. It will reflect on the grieving process and gain an understanding of current models that help us all understand grief and bereavement, becoming aware of the impact of loss on families, the skills which will improve how we communicate with bereaved people and develop an awareness of support and how and when to refer individuals for further support, including an understanding of the boundaries.
Ask and act group 2
30 March: 1:30am to 4pm
A half day course to; increase confidence and understanding of early identification, making a targeted enquiry and knowing referral pathways. This is a mandatory course for anyone working in a front facing role.
Aims and objectives:
- recognise the signs and symptoms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- understand the purpose of and demonstrate an ability to undertake targeted enquiry
- demonstrate knowledge around data protection and the duty of confidentiality
- understand the purpose of risk identification in relation to some forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence
- be able to implement the targeted enquiry care pathway
E-learning
We do have various courses that are delivered by E-Learning and these can be found on the E-learning page. These can be specific to Denbighshire but there are also various other courses available from the All Wales Academy.
Academi Wales
As a local government employees you will become a member of Academi Wales (external website), who provide a huge amount of training and resources that you can take advantage of. These are all free and some of the courses are excellent ways to develop your skills and experience and an opportunity to network.
We work closely with local Colleges and Universities to deliver recognised qualifications and training courses for our employees. Some may be funded through the apprenticeship levy, department funded or funded by other means.
Over the recent few months we have seen employees start and successfully complete management qualifications in, ILM Leadership & Management Level 2 and 3, ILM Coaching & Mentoring Level 3 and 5, Project Management Diploma Level 4 and Human Resource Management to name a few.
If you are interested in any courses or qualifications you will need to speak to your manager in the first instance, who may then speak to the Organisational Development team to arrange a discussion with the provider. You may also see various awareness sessions being advertised and held throughout the year which may be of interest to you.
There is also a full range of other department specific training and qualifications that our employees can undertake and we are working continually to develop the offer to our employees, these include Health & Safety and Social Care training, Advice and Guidance, ICT and Social Media and Digital Marketing.
We can also offer bespoke training for departments as and when there is a specific project / need and can tailor the training to suit specific service needs. Look out for various training opportunities and if you would like more information or interested in any qualifications and training please contact Llinos Howatson.
Dedicated union learning opportunities
If you are a member of the union you may find other qualification and courses that you may be able to attend or be able to apply for. Please see their dedicated learning pages below: