Training
The Immigrant Council provides training programmes and workshops to businesses, services, schools and organisations covering a wide suite of topics related to immigration and migrant rights, anti-trafficking, as well as diversity and inclusion
Whether you are looking to upskill your frontline staff, build a more diverse and inclusive workforce, or simply looking to fulfil Diversity & Inclusion requirements for your company our training is suited for multiple audiences across many different sectors.
The Immigrant Council firmly believes that through education at all levels of society many of the issues facing migrants and barriers to inclusion can be solved.
Since the 1990s Ireland has been experiencing unprecedented levels of immigration. We acknowledge that a certain level of growing pains are to be expected as Irish society evolves to become more diverse and welcoming. We also recognise that cultural perceptions do not change overnight and require time and investment to evolve.
The Immigrant Council provides dedicated training programmes and workshops to businesses, schools, community groups, associations and organisations covering a wide suite of topics related to immigration and migrant rights, as well as diversity and inclusion.
From time to time the Immigrant Council also holds public training sessions on different migrant topics including fighting human trafficking, promoting migrant political participation, and more.
Types of training offered
Please note that Immigrant Council training is available to groups of 10 people minimum only, and is intended for businesses, organisations, community groups, services and public bodies.
Training for individuals or groups less than 10 people is not currently available.
From time to time the Immigrant Council holds public training sessions on different migrant topics. These sessions will be listed on this page.
Below you will find descriptions of the standard suite of trainings we can provide with links to more information about each.
- Intercultural and Anti-racism training - Increase understanding of other cultures and promote equality and inclusion in the workplace.
- Diversity Matters - Learn how to promote a positive, inclusive working environment; Empower frontline staff to effectively interact with customers/clients from different backgrounds
- Immigration Process - Understand the workings of the Irish immigration system, basic rights held by migrants in Ireland, and understand the challenges facing migrants such as accessing employment, public services and other barriers to successful integration.
- Migrant political participation - Understand migrant voting rights, the workings of the Irish political system at all levels of Government, and the basis for migrant political campaigning.
- Anti-trafficking – Understand the issue of human trafficking, the impact on vulnerable migrant groups, how to identify victims of trafficking and supports available.
- Supporting survivors of gender-based violence training - Building the the capacities of service providers and legal professionals in the West of Ireland to better address the needs of survivors of gender-based violence including human trafficking and domestic violence.
- Show Racism the Red Card – Anti-racism training presented through a sporting lens intended for primary and secondary school educators and sports associations.
If your organisation is interested in training that goes beyond the topics above or wish to combine multiple topics into a single training regimen, we can tailor our expertise into a bespoke programme for your needs. Contact us and let us know more about what kind of training you’re looking for.
Already know what kind of training you would like? Complete our inquiry form and we will get back to you with next steps including costs and available days/times.
Upcoming Training Dates
From time to time the Immigrant Council runs scheduled public training sessions on different migrant topics. This is to give everyone the opportunity to participate who might not have the minimum number of people we require to schedule dedicated training for businesses and organisations.
If you are a business or organisation looking to schedule specific, dedicated training, contact us.
Upcoming public training sessions
To stay up to date on upcoming public training sessions, sign up for our email newsletter.
How training is delivered
With the exception of our Show Racism the Red Card programme, all Immigrant Council training can be carried out both in-person and virtually through Zoom.
Please note that for the duration of the Covid-19 pandemic, training is only being offered remotely through Zoom in accordance with public health guidelines.
Training format
Training is delivered in an interactive format inviting discussion and the sharing of ideas and thoughts. Training sessions are a safe space in which ideas can be explored and challenged without fear of judgement.
Trainers will guide participants through core concepts inviting discussions and sharing of ideas and experiences along the way. Depending on the type of training there may be some breakout sessions with exercises for participants.
The duration of training depends on the topics. View the topics above for specific information on training duration.
Please note the Show Racism the Red Card training for educations is a self-guided online training programme only and not delivered in person.
Costing
Immigrant Council training is offered at cost to businesses and Government services. For large groups of 30 or more attendees, discounted pricing is available
For an estimate of cost, please fill out our online interest form and one of our team will get back to you with more information.
Training for small groups such as community associations and smaller NGOs and non-profit organisations can be provided at reduced or no cost. Training for educators and sports associations as part of the Show Racism the Red Card programme is free but requires online registration and approval.
Our expertise
For over 20 years, the Immigrant Council has been providing expert knowledge for those seeking immigration information and advice, as well as supporting vulnerable migrants including children and women trafficked for sexual exploitation.
In the last 2 years, the Immigrant Council has provided expert training to over 1,600 people and delivered nearly 100 training sessions to businesses and services including Citizens Information Centres, An Garda Síochána, Government services and departments, local authorities spanning all of Ireland, NGOs, businesses and many more.
Immigrant Council trainers draw on their wealth of practical and theoretical knowledge and experience across all areas of migrant issues and have been recognised internationally for their specialised knowledge in these areas.
Our team leads projects and policy work to advocate in a variety of local, national and international arenas,. We have provided training and consultations to a growing number of bodies including:
- In Ireland: Citizens Information Centres, FLAC (Free Legal Aid Centres) Information and Support Service, An Garda Síochána and Garda National Protective Services Bureau, Department of Justice, Reception Integration Agency (RIA), Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS)
- In the EU: Council of Europe, European Asylum Support Organisation, International Court of Justice, Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)
- In the US: Kids in Need of Defense (KIND)
Testimonials
- ‘Very beneficial, great insight into personal feelings and dealing with them, different cultures and perceptions.’
- ‘Really enjoyed the training. Trainer was very informative and clear in delivering information. Recommended to any front line staff.’
- ‘The training was delivered clearly, it was delivered at a good pace and I felt everyone was listened to and understood.’
-Intercultural & Anti-racism training (February 2019, Dolphin’s Barn)
- ‘I enjoyed the training as it was clear, you were given handouts and everyone was given a space to say what they wanted’
- ‘Increased awareness around diversity and learning to be less judgmental and more patient. To look at all information we give out and to see if the language can be simplified or translated’
- ‘I feel better equipped to deal with people from various cultures. I am more aware of cultural differences’
-Intercultural & Anti-racism training (September 2018, Sligo)
Training inquiry
To inquire about Immigrant Council of Ireland training in any of these areas, please complete our online inquiry form and one of our team will respond within a few working days.