Introduction to GBA Plus
Training and tools
The development of relevant training and tools is a critical element in the implementation and sustainability of GBA Plus.
Training helps to transfer the practical knowledge required to implement GBA Plus within an organization, and it prepares employees to apply GBA Plus to their own work. Different approaches to training may be necessary to inform different parts of your organization – senior management, analysts, and functional specialists may all require different information in order to apply GBA Plus to their work. Case studies and illustrative examples that reflect the specific working environment or subject-matter are excellent tools for GBA Plus training.
The development of specific GBA Plus guidance documents is also important. These may include guides, manuals and checklists, which provide guidance on how GBA Plus can be applied to a certain function or process. Internal GBA Plus tools can also provide clarity and guidance on the GBA Plus process related to the specific organization.
Case Study: GBA Plus framework in a public security organization
Case Study: GBA Plus framework in a public security organization
4 - Training and tools
The GBA Plus working group has met to discuss what type of GBA Plus training will be useful for RPD employees. There is a sense that many in the organization view GBA Plus as something that relates only to human resources and employment equity, and there is not a clear understanding of how it could be applied in the department.
The working group has tasked several members to develop a training plan for the department. In order to raise greater awareness and to develop GBA Plus competencies, the workplan will identify targeted training opportunities for:
- Senior management
- Civilian and operational staff
The Training Plan will use several strategies:
- Leveraging existing mandatory training
- Utilizing external resources
- Learning and awareness events
The GBA Plus champion will provide a briefing on GBA Plus at an upcoming executive committee meeting, to explain what GBA Plus is and how it may help the department to meet its objectives.
All police officers currently have three days of mandatory training per year. This includes training on the use of force, new legislation, first aid, and a refresher course on subjects such as domestic abuse and Indigenous awareness.
The GBA Plus working group is recommending that the mandatory officer training be modified to include GBA Plus training.
The working group is also recommending that all managers and civilian staff take the two-hour GBA Plus online training course from Women and Gender Equality Canada website. In addition, an expert on GBA Plus in public security will be contracted to develop specialized case studies to be used in a half-day training session, which will be open to all employees.
The working group is also recommending that the department seek out opportunities to host learning and awareness events on gender and diversity in policing.
Based on periodic progress evaluations and the feedback received on the effectiveness/relevance of training, the working group will develop more specific guides, manuals, and checklists to help meet identified departmental needs.