THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR Healthcare Security (NAHS) has arranged eight "Career Foundation Training for Security Personnel from Healthcare Establishments" courses for next year.

Four of the three-day courses will be held at the Imperial College School of Medicine in Hammersmith, London. The other four courses take place at North Manchester NHS Trust.

The dates for the courses are:

London: 21-23 February, 13-15 June, 19-21 September and 28-30 November

Manchester: 7-9 March, 11-13 July, 8-10 October and 3-5 December

Although the course is aimed at staff required to undertake security duties, the NAHS says managers with responsibility for security, but no previous experience in this field, have found the training particularly beneficial.

Two Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points may be allocated by any Institution of Occupational Safety and Health CPD participants who successfully complete the course.

The instruction, structured on the Association's "Basic Training Manual and Study Guide for Healthcare Security Officers", is provided by managers who are trained trainers and experienced healthcare security practitioners.

End-of-course assessment is by written multiple choice examination covering the main syllabus headings (the pass mark is 60%).

NAHS says that students who successfully complete the course will:

Understand the role and principal duties of healthcare security staff.

Have an understanding of crime prevention in a healthcare environment.

Have an understanding of crime and criminal law in relation to the healthcare security function.

Understand the first steps to be taken at the scene of a crime and how to conduct an initial investigation.

Be able to carry out an arrest, caution a suspect, preserve evidence and understand the necessary legal procedures and rules of evidence.

Understand how to deal with aggressive, violent, difficult or disturbed persons and the use of minimum force.

Understand how to deal with a trespasser.

Be able to carry out lawful searches of persons and vehicles.

Be proficient in the use of a note book.

Understand the correct procedures for dealing with lost and found property.

Be proficient in communication skills and radio procedure.

Carry out security patrols effectively.

Recognise the symptoms of drug and alcohol abuse and understand the practical role of security in this field.

The course costs £250 per person - the price includes comprehensive course literature together with lunch and light refreshments each day. Details of reasonably priced local accommodation will be included in the course enquiry pack.