member to support the person with strong individual needs might work as solution. •
When working with marginalised groups it is strongly recommended that the group leaders have a work culture where professional debates, dialogue, a will to face conflicts openly and constructively, reciprocal support, professional focus and planned, structured work are real part of their work. Moreover, knowing and maintaining boundaries and ethical behaviour are even more important than with other groups where work is verbal and participants are less vulnerable.
•
If someone less experienced or new to the field wishes to enter this work, it is highly recommended that an experienced colleague works with them. In this way newcomers may enter without unnecessary risk factors.
•
It is advised to have a professional support group where practising professionals can share, discuss, further develop their work. For this purpose, we also advise users of our materials to contact us.
Training Module specific recommendations •
Essential participation: Sometimes participation can be very challenging for people with difficult past experiences. Still, encouraging them to stay in the group even while being overwhelmed with difficult emotions or burdening stories is a priority a group leader should keep in mind. This way they can work with it, using the support of the others and the group leaders. Additionally, the group leaders also need to consider how they can support someone outside the training room, while working with the group.
•
Behavioural problems (aggression, non-attendance, etc.): It is the obligation of the trainers to be able to deal with behavioural problems in a professional and constructive way. If needed and possible they can contact the participants’ sending organisation/family/contact person to consult or get a clearer picture of the issue. However, if the behaviour is threatening others the trainers should consider sending the participant away or referring them to a specialist (therapist, psychiatry, etc.). Making this decision should be a process, consulting with colleagues and, if needed, with external support persons. Please note, that in case it happens there is a need to follow up the event with the group and openly discuss it.
•
Injuries, accidents: if a participant has an accident it is the task of the group leaders to take care of it, and to seek for a solution outside the programme. In such cases one of the group leaders stays with the group, while the other goes with the injured person. It is necessary to see how the event is affecting the group. They should be supported in speaking about it openly and processing it.
13