Several of the in-house Moving & Handling trainers previously trained by Partners in Care enjoyed two CPD workshops at our offices in Annscroft near Shrewsbury last week, which were led by Tim Smith of Etac Group.
The request had been for practical, hands-on moving & handling training, and Tim brought a van full of equipment to demonstrate a range of products and techniques from simple slide-sheet mitts through to Etac Group’s very impressive HoverJack system. The trainers were very involved throughout, with the Molift Transfer Pro and Raiser Pro standing aids receiving lots of interest. The use of Immedia repositioning sheets, becoming increasingly common in care settings, was at times revelatory, with lots of useful tips shared and tested, and a few urban myths busted.
The breadth of our membership was well represented, with trainers from domiciliary, residential, nursing and complex needs settings taking part and asking sector specific questions which Tim was also to answer effectively.
Initial feedback has been very positive, and we have already had requests to invite Tim back for a third session. Tim first joined us in Spring 2025, when he worked alongside Scott from Shropshire Mobility Solutions who are a Silver Sponsor of Partners in Care and we have built a healthy, mutually beneficial relationship with both companies in just a few months. Sadly, Scott was unwell on the day, so Tim had to work alone, but Shropshire Mobility Solutions were represented by some very popular weight conversion cards and SMS pens and key rings. Scott was missed by those who had met him in the Spring, so we sent get well wishes to him from the afternoon session.
The workshops are a Continuing Professional Development event for health and social care staff who have qualified as Moving & Handling trainers by attending the Train the Trainer programme at Partners in Care. Our involvement doesn’t stop with the certificate. Those who have qualified with us also have continued support from our very own Moving & Handling Trainers, Emma and Martin, and access to organised events such as the workshops, resources, and legal and technical information.