A Guide on Safety Intervention Foundation Training

This week we look at Safety Intervention Foundation training, we explore the importance of this training, its benefits to participants, and an overview of what the certification entails.

Arthur, the founder of Infinite Disability Services, brings a unique and invaluable skill set to the organisation as a certified Safety Interventions Instructor. His expertise in delivering internationally recognised training, particularly the Safety Intervention Foundation certification (formerly known as MAPA), we pride ourselves on being a leader in fostering safe and supportive environments for participants and staff alike.

Why Safety Intervention Foundation Training is Crucial

The Safety Intervention Foundation certification is designed to equip professionals with the skills to prevent and manage crisis situations effectively. In sectors such as disability services, healthcare, education, and security, staff often encounter challenging behaviors stemming from trauma or complex needs. Without proper training, these situations can escalate, risking harm to both staff and participants.

The training focuses on de-escalation techniques, non-restrictive interventions, and when necessary, restrictive interventions, all within a trauma-informed and person-centered framework. By emphasising prevention and proactive strategies, this program ensures that staff are prepared to maintain a culture of Care, Welfare, Safety, and Security—the core values of the certification.

For organisations like ours, having a certified instructor like Arthur ensures that team members are consistently trained to handle high-stress scenarios with confidence and professionalism. This proactive approach reduces workplace incidents, improves staff morale, and enhances our ability to provide person centered care to our participants.

Photo: Crisis Intervention Foundation

Benefits for Participants

1. Enhanced Participant Well-being

Participants often face unique challenges that can lead to behavioral crisis. Properly trained staff can recognise early signs of distress and intervene in ways that prioritise safety and dignity. This minimises the risk of escalation while fostering trust between participants and caregivers.

2. Improved Staff Confidence

Crisis situations can be overwhelming for untrained personnel. The Safety Intervention Foundation training empowers staff with practical tools to handle such scenarios effectively. This not only boosts their confidence but also reduces feelings of burnout and stress.

3. Safer Environments

By implementing evidence-based strategies from the training, organisations create safer environments for everyone involved. Staff learn how to assess risks dynamically and apply the least restrictive interventions necessary, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.

4. Better Outcomes

When crises are managed effectively, participants experience fewer disruptions in their care plans. This leads to improved long-term outcomes, as they feel supported in environments that promote stability and understanding.

Overview of the Safety Intervention Foundation Certification

The Safety Intervention Foundation training, developed by the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI), is internationally recognised for its comprehensive approach to managing challenging behaviors. The program integrates seven core modules:

1. Understanding Behavior and Its Risks

   Identifying factors that contribute to escalating behaviors.

2. CPI Crisis Development Model

   A structured framework for recognising stages of crisis and responding appropriately.

3. Supportive Communication Skills

   Techniques for calming individuals using empathetic communication.

4. Responding to Defensive Behaviors

   Strategies for managing resistance while maintaining safety.

5. Safety Interventions: Disengagement Skills

   Methods for safely disengaging from potentially harmful situations.

6. Safety Interventions: Holding Skills

   Training on restrictive interventions when absolutely necessary.

7. Post-Crisis Support

   Debriefing techniques to ensure emotional recovery for both participants and staff.

This training is delivered through both theoretical instruction and practical demonstrations, ensuring that students undergoing training gain hands-on experience in applying these skills. Certificates are typically valid for two years, requiring periodic renewal to maintain competency.

Arthur’s role as an in-house certified instructor ensures that training is tailored to the organisation’s specific needs while maintaining alignment with international best practices.

This commitment not only enhances staff capabilities but also demonstrates our dedication to providing exceptional care for individuals with disabilities. By fostering a culture of safety and empathy, the organization creates an environment where participants can thrive.

---

Need assistance? Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can support your loved one. We’re ready to help you every step of the way!