The 3DD Project offered a menu of selected, quality training programmes. The aim was to add depth and value to our current continuing professional development activities for staff and volunteers in our organisations and projects. Our specific goals were: • develop our organisational teams to offer high-quality, relevant education, training and other interventions around improving outcomes for vulnerable groups (e.g. care experienced, unaccompanied asylum seekers, refugees and migrants) • reduce the likelihood of secondary trauma in staff and volunteers • build on the existing resilience, strengths and skills of service users and of staff • provide access to learning and networking opportunities to individuals and organisations who have not previously had these • develop new, cross-sector partnerships in the UK • develop new connections with European organisations working in this field • learn about good practice and innovative approaches in the UK and Europe around supporting recovery from trauma • reduce exclusion and improve outcomes for vulnerable individuals and groups enabling people to achieve their full potential • contribute to creating more resilient communities, with social and economic opportunities for all
Our consortium came together because we share a belief in the need to dramatically improve the educational achievement and life chances of vulnerable young people and adults. We all work to improve the lives of children and adults who have experienced trauma - neglect, abuse, persecution, war, exploitation, gender-based violence. We wanted to further develop our knowledge, understanding and skills in supporting such individuals and groups. Our organisations also provide, and are keen to improve, training programmes for the professionals and volunteers working with vulnerable groups to deliver learning courses that are high quality, innovative, inspiring and impactful. The courses selected offered new approaches, competences, skills and strategies e.g. for building resilience and recovering from trauma. Programmes were chosen to improve staff knowledge, ability and confidence around supporting, training or managing their staff teams and external clients by introducing new theories, frameworks, strategies and insights. The programme sought to create new links, partnerships and knowledge exchange with each other and with European organisations to share good practice for improving inclusion, resilience and educational attainment.