The Salvation Army First Responder Training 30th June 2023.
A group of us completed the Salvation Army First Responder Training to become First Responder Volunteers. The full day training took place at William Booth College in SE5, which included a background to modern slavery and the Salvation Army’s role within Home Office National Referral Mechanism (NRM). Throughout the day we were shown how we interview and gather referral information about possible victims prior to referring this to the NRM.
The NRM will use this information to determine if people are victims of modern slavery which includes human trafficking, servitude or forced labour. Where the NRM considers there to be Reasonable Grounds the victim willl be provided with with protection and support from the UK government for at least 45 days. This support can include
- safe accommodation,
- medical care
- counselling
- financial support or
- legal advice, prior to conclusive decision being made.
As many of the victim’s do not have English as their first language, it was explained how to effectively use the interpreting and translation service. As this is such a significant piece of work, we were offered assurances that support would be provided for us at the various stages.
The training was well delivered and received. The commitment is relatively minimal (once or twice a month), and it was expressed that it would assist with the backlog that the Salvation Army is experiencing. Although the subject matter is serious, I felt that overall we had an enjoyable day which was complimented by the flow of tea, coffee, biscuits, a substantial, enjoyable lunch and good company.
In friendship.