We are proud to share that Active Care Group (ACG) has been named a finalist in the inaugural Workplace Violence Reduction Awards (WVRAs).

The WVRAs recognise organisations that excel at reducing workplace violence in all types of workplaces in any sector. The awards are designed to be independent, inclusive, and open to anyone.

The awards’ criteria are based on extensive research on key factors contributing to and characterising outstanding performance.

Active Care Group and its staff have been recognised in the following categories:

• Outstanding Leadership: Lead Behaviour Management Specialist Matthew Carpenter and Paul Richardson from the Active Care Group Learning and Development (L&D) team have been nominated for demonstrating how to improve safety and well-being and for their personal commitment and leadership attributes in delivering positive change.

Matthew and Paul lead personal safety, conflict resolution, and support at Active Care Group, advising on reducing workplace violence and promoting well-being. They deliver training to fifty services and lead a mentor program for 18 trainers. Matthew and Paul have also introduced an in-house “Train the Trainer” initiative and developed physical intervention training, fostering peer support and sharing best practices.

• Outstanding Training Initiative: Active Care Group for implementing a training initiative to reduce workplace violence that has produced identifiable and impactful results.

Seeing the need for a consistent approach to conflict management, the L&D team introduced a new programme across fifty services. Doing so has helped standardise training, practices, and reporting, thus allowing staff to apply the same principles they’re learning when supporting individuals within our services (who have challenging behaviours).

The programme has improved teamwork and incident response, reduced high-risk situations, and reinforced ACG’s commitment to limiting restrictive practices.

With new training and continued support, the staff feel more confident, prepared, and empowered, leading to greater job satisfaction and less stress.

Commenting on the nominations, Paul was delighted for the team: “Reaching the WVRA finals is a remarkable achievement for both the L&D team and ACG. It highlights our commitment to building a positive and caring culture, reducing restrictive practices, and driving meaningful change within ACG.

We are dedicated to delivering the highest standard of safe, person-centred, and evidence-based care across our services.”

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony at the Birmingham Metropole Hotel on 8 April 2025. We look forward to celebrating with our fellow nominees.