The ability to adapt rapidly to unexpected change is a crucial element of any business, and the current Coronavirus situation has presented some unique issues around training when staff are not in the office.
As a key service, the home care team at West Norfolk’s Extra Hands has adopted new methods to keep staff and service users updated and safe.
Training manager Justin Mayes has been delivering important training for staff via the virtual world of the Zoom conferencing software which can link many people at the touch of a button on computer, tablet or smartphone.
The visual aspect of Zoom means Justin can show new members of staff elements of training such as moving and handling techniques without having to be in the same room and Zoom is a training activity which could carry on long after lockdown.
“I don’t think it will replace face-to-face training completely, but I can see it working alongside the more traditional approach. Working this way allows a huge amount of flexibility and, at the moment, it is the only way to train safely,” he said.
Justin is using a four-camera set-up to enable different aspects of training to be clearly seen - from close-up techniques for medication training to a wider-view, for subjects like safe handling.
And the new technology doesn’t end there, as carers are working to link-up families with their loved ones via a similar form of software. While vulnerable service-users are self- isolating to keep safe, their carers can link up with relatives so they can have a virtual chat.
“Right now, this technology is absolutely vital. It means we can continue to employ new staff and train them, which is so important. I can also see it becoming something used more to make training more accessible to people who might have other commitments,” said Justin.
New staff are given all the resources they need on the first day and Justin ensures they are set-up and confident with Zoom so they can utilise it fully for their training programme.
Like most websites we use cookies to give you the best experience, by using this website you agree to their use. For more information please read our privacy policy.