History: About Me
James worked in the substance use field as a frontline worker (treatment, children in care, youth offending and children’s social work) manager, trainer and lecturer.
James also designed and delivered courses for Alcohol Concern and is now working with Alcohol Change UK providing Motivational Interviewing training for people affected by alcohol use.
James completed his Masters degree in Social Work and worked as a Children’s Social Worker in Derby and Derbyshire. This led to James working as a Senior Staff Development Officer for Derbyshire providing a range of Safeguarding Children courses. He specialised in training Designated Safeguarding Leads in Education, Motivational Interviewing and the Toxic Trio (Substance Misuse, Domestic Violence and Parental Mental Ill Health).
James is a member of MINT (Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers) and has delivered Introductory and Advanced Motivational Interviewing training across a range of services and areas including Substance Misuse, Children’s Services (Social Care and Multi-agency Teams) and Youth Offending.
After a spell as a University Lecturer in Health and Social Care, James set up as a Freelance Safeguarding Consultant and Trainer. His 27 years working with Children, Young People and their families across 5 Local Authorities, has given him a wealth of knowledge and experience which he now brings to life in training and development sessions. James currently provides Safeguarding audits and training as an Associate for the NSPCC and a range of other specialist providers. James is also a Safeguarding Auditor for APSCo (The Association of Professional Staffing Companies).
At the heart of his approach to training and consultancy is his compassionate approach and the belief that a collaborative approach to working with people to affect change in their lives works best. James is passionate about working with children, young people and their families. Underpinning James’ approach is his commitment to systemic practice, systems theory and the Spirit of Motivational Interviewing. This gives his training and consultancy a holistic vision of keeping children and their families safe.
Book/contact james:
If you would like to receive information from me regarding relevant courses/events, please use the email address below: james.upton@miandsafeguardingtraining.co.uk
