Not for Profit Business Association

Development and Implementation of Best Standards of Practice in Manual Handling within the Irish Wheelchair Association Imelda Gaffney Regional Training Officer Irish Wheelchair Association

Brief Project Outline  Limited number of instructors with no clear guidelines for training delivery  Development of a Manual Handling Standards Committee  Standardisation of training module  Standardisation of training delivery  Development of Communication processes (Newsletter; workshops; annual conference)  Networking: NBE; Safety First.

Identification of Need  Legislative requirements  Increase in staff numbers  Increased demand for Manual Handling training  Limited number of Manual Handling Instructors  Feedback from existing Manual Handling Instructors  Lack of clear direction for trainers

Processes used  Meeting of all existing Instructors  Election of a Manual Handling Standards Committee (2003)  Development of a new training pack to be used by all instructors  Development of relevant records to be maintained.  Development of communication processes  Networking with other groups

Impact/Outcomes  All training delivered was standardised across the country  The Instructors were more confident in their delivery of training  Communication processes ensured continuous information updates and support  All staff were trained to the same standard.

Measurements and Continuous Improvement Processes  Formal review of the Manual Handling Standards Committee  Implementation of recommendations from the review  Ongoing consultation with all departments within the organisation to design specific training modules.  Review the role of the instructor (add on role V dedicated post)

Key Learning Points for the Organisation  The focus on Legislation has led to an increased demand for training for all staff  Training needs to be specific to the job rather than a generic programme.  Support and continuous updates for instructors is vital to maintaining standards  Internal and External monitoring and Evaluation is essential in maintaining standards  Networking with other groups increases learning opportunities and provides support.

Learning transferred/use for NFPBA member organisations  Have a clear Manual Handling policy  Re-evaluate your current model of training delivery and adjust if necessary  Ensure good communication process/support with management and Instructors  Importance of networking with other organisations /sharing knowledge  Review & Evaluate regularly and be open to the idea of change.

Thank You