December Check-in Question: What do you see as the priority learning needs for CAPC/CPNP project staff in the next few years?
CAPC (Community Action Program for Children) and CPNP (Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program) staff are facing more complex challenges in their work these days, and it’s important to ensure they’re equipped with the right skills and training. Here are a few areas that might be priorities:
Supporting Complex Needs: Many participants face tough challenges like mental health issues, substance use, and financial struggles. Staff may need more training to handle these situations effectively.
Cultural Awareness: With Canada’s diversity, understanding and respecting different cultural backgrounds, including those of Indigenous communities and recent immigrants, is more important than ever.
Trauma-Informed Care: A lot of participants have been through challenging or traumatic experiences. Training in how to provide sensitive, supportive care could be key.
Digital Skills and Virtual Services: The shift to online services during the pandemic highlighted the need for staff to be comfortable with technology and to help participants with limited access to it.
Evaluating Impact: Staff need tools to measure the effectiveness of their programs—like conducting needs assessments and tracking outcomes—to secure funding and improve services.
Building Partnerships and Finding Resources: With limited funding, learning how to collaborate with other organizations and bring in additional resources could be crucial.
These are just some ideas about what might be important. What do you see as the priority learning needs for CAPC/CPNP staff in the next few years? Your input is really valuable—feel free to share your thoughts!