Training: Non-Visible Disability Awareness
MidKent College developed a Level 2 non-visible disability awareness course as part of the NVDi. The Course was launched on 29 October 2021 (picture opposite) and the first intake of 11 students completed their studies in May 2022. Feedback from the students was very positive, but the consensus was that a shorter course, with fewer modules, would be preferred.
Following a survey, conducted by Medway Council, it was established that the priority training required by businesses, service providers etc in Medway was a short, free, community NVD awareness course that could be delivered to public-facing staff either online or face-to-face. So, MidKent College, University of Greenwich, and Medway Adult Education are working to design such a short course.
A Basic online NVD Awareness course, aimed at customer-facing staff, has been prepared and is in the process of CPD Accreditation. An Advanced online short NVD Awareness course, aimed at managers, healthcare professional etc, has also been prepared and is also in the process of CPD Accreditation. Both online courses are due for launch in the Spring of 2026.
NVDi Level 2 Graduation Ceremony, 14 November 2022
This ceremony, held at the magnificent Rochester Bridge Trust Chapel on Rochester Esplanade, saw the first 11 graduates receive their certificates from the Worshipful Mayor of Medway Cllr Jan Aldous.. The graduates were::
Christine Bostock - Rochester Cathedral, Anna Chaplain, Dementia Friends Champion
Susanne Bulpin - Brainstorm Community Group
R o h a n Charles - Alzheimer's Society, Group Facilitator & MDAA Rep.
Tracey Errington - Sunlight Community Centre
Jane Etheridge - Headway Medway
Lise Glennon - MidKent College
Leon Goodman - Headway Ambassador
Sue Groves MBE - Disability Campaigner
Emily Hills - Medway Mum
Tommy Kelleher - McDonalds (Strood)
Becky Sambrook - Kent Police
These are the first graduates of this pioneering course designed by MidKent College in collaboration with the Medway community to raise awareness of Non-Visible Disabilities in Medway #medwaynvdi
Many thanks indeed to the Rochester Bridge Trust for the use of its beautiful chapel. Refreshments were provided by Celbie Catering.
