First learners receive new Violence Prevention and Reduction qualifications
Author: RSPH 16 January 2024 1 min read
Hear what the first VPR learners had to say

NHS England (NHSE) commissioned the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) to develop, design, and deliver a Violence Prevention and Reduction educational pathway for members of the NHS workforce leading on violence prevention in the workplace, as well as other members of the NHS workforce who are working in ‘at risk’ environments. This educational pathway has three levels:
- Level 3 Award in Violence Prevention and Reduction for Operational Leads
- Level 3 Award in Violence Prevention and Reduction for Strategic Specialists
- Level 4 Award in Violence Prevention and Reduction for Strategic Specialists
Overall, 31 Learners participated in the pilot version of this pathway from May to July 2023.
RSPH is pleased to announce that all of the learners that submitted workbooks from this cohort have passed their assessments and were awarded certifications in Violence Prevention and Reduction at their specific level. They are the first learners to attain these new qualifications and are trail blazers for adopting a public health approach to violence prevention and reduction.
Undertaking the Level 4 Violence Prevention & Reduction training with the Royal Society for Public Health was a really positive experience. It brought together the essential knowledge in such a way, supported by reflective practice, that it clearly demonstrates the value of a public health approach to preventing violence and abuse towards staff.
Learner who received the award
Sussex ICS has developed a very clear strategy to prevent and reduce violence, and this investment in the training and development of key leaders within the system will greatly increase the chances of the strategy delivering and keeping the People Promise to keep our staff safe and healthy. It is so important for every system to know who the leaders and specialists are in this field, and to support and back them in making the NHS a safe place to work, and these qualifications are a crucial part of that support.
John Drew, the Director of Staff Experience and Engagement at NHSE
The Royal Society for Public Health is continuing to roll-out the violence prevention and reduction pathways. For those interested in our pathways for yourself or your organisation, find more information here .