On 12th August our latest batch of recruits completed their Samaritans Core Development training and are now progressing to taking calls.
Back in March, our latest intake of recruits started their Samaritans Core Development training, coming to the branch for weekly face to face sessions. But, no sooner had they started than everything changed and with the advent of Covid 19 all face to face training had to be halted. What to do? They seemed a great group, full of enthusiasm and the training team and the trainees were all very keen to continue. By the time full lockdown was over a new online Core Development had been set up by Samaritans Central Office wizards and we were able to resume with all trainers and trainees Zooming in each week from their homes. On 12th August they completed their final module and are now moving on to the Embedding stage, working alongside their mentors in the duty room answering calls and replying to emails. Their commitment to completing their training in such difficult circumstances and sticking with it during the lockdown pause speaks well of the calibre of the group and they will be an asset to the Branch.