OU launches package of free FCDO approved safeguarding leadership courses

The Open University (@OpenUniversity) has launched the first module in a package of free Safeguarding Leadership Training courses, aimed at those working in the international development sector. (@FutureLearn)

The three courses will help those working in development and humanitarian organisations to better understand the causes of harm, abuse, and exploitation and how to effectively prevent and respond to incidents. Funded and approved by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the first course in the package is available to start studying now on leading social learning platform, FutureLearn.com.

Developed as part of the UK’s Strategy on Safeguarding Against Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, and Sexual Harassment (SEAH) within the Aid Sector, the courses aim to promote safeguarding best practice and strengthen organisational capacity and capability of those working in international development. The OU was enlisted because of its capabilities of delivering training remotely and on a global scale.

OU academics, Jan Webb and Professor Giles Mohan have been involved in creating the courses.

Jan Webb, Associate Head of School, Professional Programmes at the OU, commented:

“We are delighted to be working with the FCDO to provide this much needed training. The course will contribute to improving outcomes for children and vulnerable adults within the aid sector and will support the career pathways for aid workers looking at becoming a safeguarding specialist.”

The course content includes:

Introduction to Safeguarding – focusses on the key principles of safeguarding, specifically for aid organisations, and is designed to support learners to develop the skills to implement safeguarding policies and practice relevant to their organisation. This course is relevant to anyone working in the sector to ensure complete organisational adoption of safeguarding practice. Available to start studying now.

Implementing Safeguarding in the Aid Sector – will support learners to deal with challenging situations relevant to the specific aid sub-sectors they are working in, such as education, health, and humanitarian. Available from November 2021.

Safeguarding Leadership in Action – explores the relationship between leadership and safeguarding, both within and across organisations and sectors. This course will help pull all learning together through critical reflection on personal leadership skills and leadership frameworks to develop advanced safeguarding practice, including policy and training aspects. Available from June 2022.