Every two years, our Responder and Supporter members are required to renew their operational competencies during a full-day training programme. Members who do not complete this renewal are unable to remain on call until they have attended one of the three training days held throughout the year.

The competencies covered include Radio Communications, including the use of Airwaves; Water Safety (theory and practical); Roads Incident Management (RIM); Traffic Safety; and Traction Assistance. The programme also includes a review of how we use media to promote our group. In addition, members' driving skills and vehicles are assessed to ensure they continue to meet operational standards.

A smaller group attended today's session, enjoying a mixture of classroom-based learning and practical outdoor activities. We are extremely grateful to Kent Police for providing the use of their auditorium and outdoor training facilities at Kent Police College, which enabled us to deliver a comprehensive and engaging training day. Also to our Training Officer and facilitators who delivered sessions today.

The first of our training weekends took place over two days in early March, with 4 new members undergoing full competency training along with initiation into our working practices on Day 1. They were joined by a group of existing members on the second day who were renewing their competencies. The competency training is undertaken by all responders and supporters on a bi-annual basis. Our new members on passing the weekend were congratulated and given sleeved hi-vis tabards along with car stickers and their badges. The hard working group of trainers who led the weekend sessions alongside our Training Officer received very positive feedback on sessions. Well done all!

The first of three training weekends this year saw current members updating key skills along with refreshing knowledge over one of the two days. New members, attending both days of the weekend, had more in depth training to enable confident beginnings when out on call and attending various events throughout the coming year.

We are delighted to welcome the latest volunteers to our expanding team who completed their two day training this weekend. Well done all! Pictured here with our CEO, David Mills, and our Training Officer, Ross Hart.