The Working in Partnership Programme

WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMME

Organisations and individuals who make the decision to work with SPAEN take on the structure we have devised which links with the Advice and Indemnity scheme.  In order that they are fully conversant with our procedures we have produced, with input from Peninsula Employment Consultancy, a Working in Partnership training programme. 

The programme encourages employment issues to be thought out logically breaking each issue down and dealing with each taking account of the current legislation.  In addition to this each topic incorporates the stationary pack which is issued to each employer encouraging the effective use of the stationary to create an audit trail of events. The modules can be delivered in isolation however, it is suggested that each module is received in the order noted below as there is a logical link between each topic. This programme gives people choice in what to learn and to learn in a way that suits their learning style as the material is delivered in a plethora of different ways.

The learning outcomes achieved with this programme enable the support worker or individual to advise confidently on the policy and practice of Employment Law issues together with a working awareness of the policies and practice of Personnel Management.

Module 1 – Understanding contracts (approx ½ day)

By the end of this module you should be able to:    

• Understand the way a contract of employment is written
• Describe what a contract contains, what the implied terms are and what constitutes custom and practice
• Understand the basic elements of employment law surrounding contracts

Every employee has a contract of employment and the relationship is contractual. This module gives full and frank explanations of the employer/employee relationship using the contract to establish boundaries and rules reiterating the legal requirements employers have to adhere.  This also considers the status of the person you wish to have working with you.

Module 2 – Discipline and Capability (approx 1 day)

By the end of this session, you will be able to : 

• Understand and Define the meaning of ‘Discipline’ in the workplace/home  
• Take appropriate action to avoid disciplinary action
• Understand the ACAS Code of Practice
• Understand the procedure involved in carrying out a Disciplinary or Capability hearing
• Be appreciative of what you can and cannot do at a hearing
• Conduct a hearing knowing the Rules
• Recognise the importance of the Appeal Procedure

This module is currently suspended until rewritten with the relevant changes to the procedures after the repeal. This should be live after April 6th 2009.

Module 3 – Absenteeism Cause and remedy (approx ½ day)

By the end of this session, you will be able to:
                                                                                            
• Define the meaning of absenteeism in the workplace
• Understand and recognise the main causes of absenteeism
• Apply good practices to improve absenteeism
• Familiarise yourself with some effective paperwork to help control absenteeism
• Conduct a return to work interview when required to do so

This module looks at the procedures to have in place for dealing with Absenteeism and considers all the other reasons other than genuine sickness.  This brings a knowledge of the current family friendly policies and regulations that are currently available together with the qualifications periods and process to go through when authorisations for absences is requested.

Module 4 – Harassment and Bullying (approx ½ day)

By the end of this session you will be able to:         

• Understand the legal definition of harassment
• Be aware what and when action constitutes harassment
• Look at the implications and impact of harassment and bullying
• Know the employers responsibilities and liability
• Be aware of the purpose of having a harassment policy
• Know how to handle harassment allegations

Module 5 – Appraisals (approx ½ day)
                                                                                
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Understand the benefits to carrying out appraisals
• Prepare for and conduct a mutually effective appraisals meeting
• Have an awareness of the Performance Management Process
• Recognise appropriate targets and action plans for your staff
• Fully utilise the suggested, relevant forms and documentation
• Know and understand you personal approach to Management by knowing your staff.

Module 6 – People Management (approx ½ day)

By the end of this session you will be able:        

• To develop an awareness of the major reasons employees do not meet employment standards
• To recognise signs that a performance problem is brewing
• Understand the importance of negative and positive consequences of your action/inaction
• Awareness of reasons employers fail to address performance problems
• To experience the giving and receiving of feedback
• Have an awareness of conflict management