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Use of force training is essential for the safety of those who live and work in prisons. Maintaining this training in the midst of a pandemic is difficult due to the health and resource challenges. In order to provide a realistic and defensible way ahead, this guidance sets out the approach prison establishments should follow.
The full refresher training for MMPR and C&R should now resume on a ‘best effort’ basis. This means that establishments should make their best efforts to deliver the training. Priority should be given to refreshing C&R advanced trained staff who are relied upon for TORNADO commitment.
Where an establishment is unable to deliver the full refresher training, they must submit an explanation and case for exemption to the Prison Group Director (a template form has been provided). Where the full training cannot be delivered, the first option should be to deliver an alternative classroom based refresher based on theory elements of the training. The curriculum for this will be provided to establishments by application to the UoF FMB (UoFQueries@justice.gov.uk). Only if this alternative delivery is not possible should consideration be given to suspending refresher training. Anything less than the full training should be reviewed at least every 28 days. A record of this decision, and the justification, as well as any reviews should be sent to the Use of Force team at UoFQueries@justice.gov.uk.
PGD offices must monitor ongoing impact on local operational capability and TORNADO commitment. To be eligible to respond under Operation Tornado, C&R advanced staff must have attended an initial advanced or advanced refresher since November 2018 and have attended a local use of force refresher within 18 month of date of deployment.
The roll out of SPEAR and PAVA may recommence if your site has passed readiness, your training plan has been submitted and agreed to the physical safety team. If you are unsure if you meet this criteria please contact the physical safety mail box physical.safety@justice.gov.uk. This training should only recommence with prior discussion with your implementation manager. Any staff undertaking this training must be in date with their basic use of force.