Knowledge & Skills Framework
The framework is designed to support workers across all levels of the workforce, and targets different levels with specific knowledge and skills.
The tiers of the framework range from basic knowledge (Group 1), to a range of enhanced workforce development and improved commitment and understanding for non-specialist frontline workers (Group 2), specialist sector professional development (Group 3), through to engagement with managers and leaders (Group 4).
The framework is modelled on the Welsh Government Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) National Training Framework, and learning shared between nations has been invaluable. Throughout development it has also been crucial to work closely with national and local experts and stakeholders, and Equally Safe in Practice (ESiP) has worked collaboratively with, and received extensive input from, local and national partners. We recognise and acknowledge the time, insight and expertise of Improvement Service, Engender, Rape Crisis Scotland, Women’s Support Project, Close the Gap, Zero Tolerance, COSLA and the VAW partnership network – and others – in this process.
How to engage with the Equally Safe in Practice Framework
The full Knowledge and Skills Framework has been published and can be accessed below. The framework is available for use by workers and leads across all sectors and professional levels, and is a supportive tool that can inform decision making on learning and development, help to guide training needs assessments, aide the development of new training or alignment of existing training resources or offerings.
The ESiP Kitemark Accreditation offers a pathway that operationalises the K&S Framework, by supporting organisations to review their workforce development infrastructure and take steps towards aligning with the national framework. The Kitemark Accreditation enables organisations to demonstrate their commitment and investment towards upskilling and strengthening the knowledge and practice of their workforces.
Piloting the Framework
To test the core foundational level of the Knowledge & Skills Framework in practice, ESiP engaged with local councils and launch a pilot phase during 2021-22. Three foundational e-learning modules were piloted across selected council staff teams, combined with reflective practice sessions facilitated within teams.
The councils participated in the pilot and testing were Angus, Dundee, Falkirk, Fife, East Renfrewshire, South Lanarkshire and West Dunbartonshire.
For more information on the pilot phase and key learning from the Equally Safe in Practice Pilot Evaluation please see the SWA blog.
The pilot process was coordinated internally by a self-established council steering group that oversaw and supported roll out of the e-learning modules to targeted staff groups, and shaped their own process with ESiP support. Testing was used to explore ways of adding value to existing training and development, whilst also exploring options to embed the learning for longer term, sustained impact.
