Adult support and protection learning and development: national framework

Ministerial Foreword

I am delighted to see the publication of the National Learning and Development Framework, the first of its kind for Adult Support and Protection. The Framework is for use on a multi-agency, multi-disciplinary basis to ensure that people are suitably trained and skilled to perform the actions required by their remit, in respect of supporting and protecting adults.

I am pleased that the Framework prioritises workforce development and underscores the importance of dialogue, collaboration, and partnership across professional groups. The Framework takes a national approach, applicable across agencies and sectors. This national approach provides a consistency to training in relation to ASP whilst also setting out the duties for staff to enable them to recognise, respond, record and report when an adult is at risk of harm.

This Framework is intended for all staff and volunteers operating across Scotland who might come into contact with adults as part of their role. I encourage all organisations to implement the Framework, adapting for local use as necessary. Local leaders from across disciplines and agencies, including colleagues who lead on learning and development, can utilise the Framework to identify the appropriate level of training required for staff, based on roles and responsibilities, as described. I see this as a real opportunity for all staff and volunteers, regardless of discipline, organisation or level, to know their training expectations in relation to ASP such that appropriate training can be pursued and provided, ultimately benefiting both the workforce and adults at risk.

My sincere thanks go to the National Adult Support and Protection Co-ordinator who, along with the dedicated members of the writing group and stakeholder reference group, worked to create an incredibly helpful resource. The Framework underlines that no matter your role or organisation, Adult Support and Protection is everyone’s business.

Tom Arthur, MSP
Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing