A new idea to assist with the reduction of abuse suffered by adults and children in Derbyshire was launched in January 2006.

The e-learning package has been designed to assist in the reduction of abuse of children and adults by raising awareness, improving the recognition of abuse and describing the actions to be taken by public service workers and volunteers.  It would be of value to any agency or individual, through their work or volunteering comes into contact with service users and families.  It can also be used as a reference guide to Government documents and contacts and help-lines.

The learning package defines what abuse is, in line with current government guidance and legislation and identifies possible potential signs of abuse.  It includes the names of agencies that have responsibilities to protect children and adults and explains individuals' responsibilities in line with both local and national policies and procedures.

‘Breaking the Cycle of Abuse’ has been designed and developed by a small group of multi-agency staff from Derbyshire Mental Health Trust, Derbyshire Constabulary, Social Care Services County & City and Derby City Safeguarding Children Board, led by Lorraine Knights of the Derbyshire Mental Health Trust.  The package takes up to 2 hours to complete but can be used in a variety of ways, for example in ‘chunks’ over a period of time, in pairs or for group learning. 

More than 6,000 computer disks have been produced which are free to Derbyshire Agencies.

Copies of the e-learning package can be obtained from:

(For Children’s Agencies)
ACPC/Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Board – 01773 728740
ACPC/Derby Safeguarding Children Board – 01332 717811

(For Adult’s Agencies)
elearning@derbyshire.gov.uk