Basic training course Confidential adviser (for employees)
As a Confidential adviser, people rely on you when they face difficult situations at work. That responsibility requires both knowledge and strong interpersonal skills.
This training provides a solid foundation for new and aspiring Confidential advisers. You will gain insight into the legal framework, learn about your role and responsibilities and develop the skills needed to handle reports and conduct professional support conversations.
You will explore topics such as bullying, intimidation, harassment and other forms of undesirable behaviour, while learning how to support employees in a careful, professional and confidential manner. Attention is also given to communication with management, complaints procedures and relevant legislation.
By the end of the training, you will have a clear understanding of your position within the organisation and the confidence to fulfil your role effectively.
Theme 1: Exploration
Gain insight into the many ways undesirable behaviour can manifest itself in the workplace, including bullying, intimidation, aggression, violence and harassment. We also explore your own perceptions, assumptions and skills when dealing with these situations. In addition, you will become familiar with the legal framework that underpins workplace policies on undesirable behaviour. Including relevant legislation such as the Dutch House for Whistleblowers Act. You will also receive practical guidance on improving complaints procedures within your organisation.
Theme 2: Role and tasks of the confidential adviser
What does the role of a Confidential adviser involve in practice? This theme provides a clear overview of the responsibilities, scope and boundaries of the role. You will learn what is expected of a Confidential adviser, what falls outside the role, and how the position differs from other functions, such as a complaints committee.
Theme 3: Handling a report from start to finish, the first conversation and then?
What happens when an employee comes forward with a concern or complaint? Step by step, we explore the options available to both the employee and the Confidential adviser. You will learn how to use the escalation ladder as a practical tool for guiding conversations and determining appropriate next steps. Attention is given to the initial interview, procedural requirements and relevant legal considerations.
Through practical case studies and conversation exercises, you will develop the skills needed to conduct professional support interviews and manage reports in a structured and confidential manner. We also examine the possible follow-up actions that may be required after a report has been received.
‘Support employees with professionalism, confidence and care.’
Further Development
For Confidential advisers who wish to deepen their expertise, SBI Formaat also offers tailor-made follow-up programmes, advanced interview-skills training and peer consultation sessions (intervision). These can be organised individually or in groups, together with fellow Confidential advisers and, where appropriate, members of complaints committees.
During the training, we assess participants’ development needs and discuss suitable follow-up options. SBI Formaat provides training programmes for both Confidential advisers and complaints committee members.
View the Dutch version of the training (Basistraining vertrouwenspersonen)
