H.O.P.E Report Launch

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H.O.P.E Training & Consultancy & The University of Suffolk  have launched a report presenting the findings of a study conducted to evaluate the efficacy and utility of Cross-Cultural Training offered by H.O.P.E through a webinar format to a range of researchers, professionals, practitioners and front-line workers from a range of statutory, non-governmental and third-sector organisations. 

 

The report presents a number of existing problems which arise from a lack of cross-cultural competency, and how training could mitigate against these problems and ameliorate a lack of cultural awareness/sensitivity and ability to empathize with those from specific backgrounds and understand the cultural circumstances specific to their personal situations. 

 

This project was Funded by Lloyds TSB Foundation & Supported by Safelives and consisted of 12 webinars all speakers from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds running from March 2021-November 2021, all were chaired by Founder & Director of H.O.P.E. The Webinar registration ranged from 127-276 bookings average attendance 110. There were 147 matched pre- and post-intervention survey responses analysed. All speakers were also interviewed after each webinar. 

 

The report key findings were:

• Quantitative findings demonstrate statistically significant gains in knowledge and confidence

 

• Survey findings and interviewee comments support that CCT is needed – CCT can challenge, educate, amplify neglected voices, create counter-narratives, mobilise and empower

 

• Feedback from attendees suggests speakers’ discussion of lived experience and having a space for open, authentic conversation were key to learning

 

• Interviewees suggest CCT is necessary for promoting equitable sector, but accountability and action are also crucial

 

 

Dr Dev R Maitra LL.B. (Hons.) M.Phil. (Cantab) PGDip(Law) FHEA- Senior Research Fellow & Head of Centre for Abuse Research “Our research at the University of Suffolk showed that CCT was viewed by participants as being a highly beneficial, nuanced piece of training, sensitive to contemporary needs in the field, especially in light of the BLM movement. In particular, participants felt that the training was informed and pragmatic, allowing for candid and open discussions around the subjects of race, gender-based violence, and myriad other pressing social issues”

 

Dr Katherine Allen Research Assistant Centre for Abuse Research (CARe) “Our evaluation findings highlight the importance of promoting wider access to CCT that speaks to substantive issues around lived experience and systemic discrimination. The overwhelmingly positive responses from participants demonstrate that there is a hunger for this kind of training within the sector which has often gone unmet in the past, contributing to inequalities in service provision for minoritised survivors. The significant gains in knowledge and confidence among attendees suggest that effective CCT is a crucial step in the journey to creating a more equal sector.”