Kitemark Accreditation
The Knowledge and Skills Framework underpins the wider work of the Equally Safe in Practice programme. The Knowledge and Skills Framework can be used and operationalised through the ESiP Kitemarking process, which offers guidance and direction around workforce development.
The ESiP Kitemark supports organisations to identify the appropriate level of training for their teams or organisation, and enables them to source suitable learning and development initiatives that will support lasting attitude and practice change.
Engaging with the ESiP Framework and participating in the ESiP Kitemark process offers organisations an opportunity to access and benefit from specialist support and guidance, and the chance to demonstrate the progress they are making in addressing gender inequality and tackling VAWG. Prioritising workforce development is essential, and the Kitemark offers a clear pathway to achieve a transformation in practice.
The kitemarking process creates clarity and builds a supportive system around transforming practice and developing workforce knowledge and skills related to gender competence, intersectionality, and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). Organisations seeking to engage with the ESiP Framework will be connected with an ESiP Lead, who will help define a tailored pathway that meets the organisation’s learning needs. This pathway will build on existing learning and development strategies and infrastructure to ensure the greatest long-term impact.
The levels of the Kitemark do not need to be completed in a sequential order. However, ESiP encourages organisations to prioritise Group One and Group Four in the early phases of the kitemarking journey. This approach ensures that a high volume of staff will be trained to the same level, with core e-modules widely completed, and that senior and strategic leads are positioned to support and drive a whole organisation approach.
Why work towards Kitemark Accreditation?
The Kitemark ensures that staff have the knowledge and tools to apply a gender perspective in their everyday work, are aware of best practices, and can effectively use them. Additionally, it involves working with strategic leads to support them in reviewing and enhancing systems and strategies.
How can my organisation achieve a Kitemark?
Organisations, departments or teams looking to work towards an ESiP Kitemark for their workforce development need to register their interest here. Or by contacting ESiP Administrator, Rosemary Banner rosemary.banner@womensaid.scot.
You should have an idea of your aims for the Kitemark, support from senior leadership to embark on this work, and a key contact who will lead the development of this work internally. You will be linked with an ESiP Lead to plan out the initial stages, conduct baseline assessments and draft an action plan that will guide you through the Kitemark process.