Training / Resources |This page last updated 21.05.08 |

There is a small resource library at the national office which loans out training materials for magistrates’ training. Loan is free of charge to anyone involved in running (non-profit) training for magistrates and usually made via the post. The resource list below is regularly updated outlining all the Association training publications and other materials available on loan.

All materials shown on this list which are produced by the Magistrates' Association can be provided by the national office. Materials produced by other organisations are available on loan only. For further details please contact the Training Unit,28 Fitzroy Square, London W1T 6DD. Tel 020 7387 2353, Fax 020 7383 4020.
The list is in order of subject category, but certain materials can be used for training in a variety of topics.

Appraisal
Bail
Case Management
Chairmanship
Communication Skills
Community Sentences
Family
Fines and Fine Enforcement
General Interest (Background)
General Magistracy
Introduction to the Magistracy / Induction
Legislation
Licensing
Minority Groups/Equal Opportunities
Micellaneous
Sentencing
Training Issues
Training Skills for Trainers
Victims and Witnesses
Youth

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Appraisal

  1. The Appraisal Discussion
    Applicable to training in: appraisal
    This book is a guide to making the appraisal a more productive experience. Advice is given on: assessing performance fairly; using constructive feedback; handling 'difficult' appraisees; identifying ways to develop appraisees. Part of the 'Management Shapers' series of books.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1999
    Author: Terry Gillen
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from Institute of Personnel and Development (IPD) Publishing Department 020 8263-3387 tel 020 8263 3850 fax publish@ipd.co.uk

  2. Appraisal - Routes to Improved Performance
    Applicable to training in: appraisal, training skills
    Appraisal can be a vital tool in harnessing commitment and managing performance. The book examines the uses of appraisal, and the best methods of designing, introducing, monitoring and maintaining systems.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1999
    Author: Clive Fletcher
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan
  3. Chairmanship Appraisal - Guide for appraisers
    Applicable to training in: appraisal, chairmanship (family)
    A guide for appraisers of chairmen, with tips on appraisal skills (eg observation, feedback, listening), information on the competences and a summary appraisal form with prompts and examples. Originally written to accompany a training session, but containing useful information nonetheless.
    Produced by: Leeds District Magistrates' Court
    Production date: Jan 99
    Author: Janet Carter
    Resource type: publication, training notes
    Available from: MA free copy
  4. The Empowering Appraisal
    Applicable to training in: appraisal
    A fully comprehensive appraisal training pack incorporating sample appraisals, a video for training groups (together with tutor's notes), a self-study video and workbook and a 6 minute video for appraisees. Geared generally at the business world, but still appropriate for magistrate appraisers.
    Produced by: BBC Business
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 2 x 29 mins & 1 x 6 mins
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from BBC for Business, 80 Wood Lane, London W12 0TT, tel 020 8433 2361, fax 020 8433 2867, email bbc4biz@bbc.co.uk
  5. Exercises in Appraisal & Performance Development
    Applicable to training in: appraisal
    Manual of Exercises for appraisal skills for managers. A detailed pack containing sets of exercises of appraisal skills for managers. Exercises are grouped in sections: selling the benefits of appraisal;clarifying performance expectations; assessing performance;developing face-to-face skills; improving poor performers; developing staff potential; and a few exercises for appraisees. Also included in the pack is a commentary on using the exercises and documentation.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel and Development
    Production date: 1999
    Author: Terry Gillen
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  6. Positive Appraisal - Developing magistrates' skills
    Applicable to training in: appraisal
    This pack tackles the unique role of the magistrate appraiser, by empowering magistrates with the necessary skills to appraise their peers effectively under MNTI. It aims to give trainers the resources to prepare magistrates for their role and includes:   four videos with scenes from the adult court; the youth court; the family court; and the appraisal discussion and a Course Material folder including training session notes, handouts and scripts. One has been distributed to every MCC.
    Produced by: Magistrates' Training Video Consortium
    Production date: November 2000
    Author: Magistrates' Association
    Resource type: training pack, video
    Available from:
    available for sale from Madingley, tel 01954 210636.
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Bail

  1. Bail Training
    Applicable to training in: bail
    Bail training exercises for trainers of magistrates.
    Produced by: Duchy of Lancaster
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
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Case Management

  1. Can we get on please? - Effective case management
    Applicable to training in: case management, chairmanship
    This is a training pack aimed at tutors and trainers to use in training magistrate chairmen, and where appropriate, legal advisers to develop the skills and confidence to deal effectively with adjournment requests. It provides a greater understanding of the role of the various agencies and the court's powers; re-emphasises the structured approach and as applied to specific circumstances surrounding the request for adjournment; and develops skills for formulating effective questions and dealing with advocates. One copy already supplied to every MCC.
    Produced by: Magistrates' Association
    Production date: October 2000
    Authors: Claire Beaver, David Brewer, Lynne McGechie
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
    or by electronic copy by email. Please note this is 137 pages long.
  2. Case Management
    Applicable to training in: dealing with delay
    Selection of case studies on case management - for use in case management training.
    Produced by: Duchy of Lancaster
    Production date: 1998
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  3. The Court in Action
    Applicable to training in: dealing with delay
    Originally devised for use by Middlesex Justices. Main purpose to give magistrates greater confidence in challenging unmeritorious applications for adjournment, particularly coming from 'professionals'. Provides convenient discussion opportunities by presenting a series of case scenarios. Comes with script.
    Produced by: Hounslow Magistrates' Court
    Production date: 1990
    Author: Alan Baldwin
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 32 minutes
    Available from: MA libary loan
  4. Tackling Avoidable Delay
    Applicable to training in: dealing with delay
    A programme for a one-day session on the importance of tackling delay in the courts and what each magistrate can do about this. Prepared with the help of promintent justices' clerks, this toolkit deals with an important issue for courts today.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1998
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
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Chairmanship

  1. Basic Chairmanship of the Adult Court
    Applicable to training in: chairmanship (adult)
    Includes tutor's pack and magistrate's pre-course material
    Produced by: University of Cambridge Centre for Continuing Education
    Resource type:
    training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  2. Chairmanship Training Video - Gloucestershire MCC
    Applicable to training in: chairmanship (adult)
    Video dealing with all aspects of the chairman's performance in court and the retiring room.
    Production date: 1994
    Resource type: video
    Duration: 41 minutes

    Available from: MA library loan
  3. Competent or Not?
    Applicable to training in: chairmanship (adult)
    A video for use at all stages of chairmanship training, as well as for training appraisers. Produced by consortium of Standing Conference of Training Officers, Magistrates' Association, the University of Birmingham & Madingley Hall. Includes manual.
    Produced by: Magistrates' Training Video Consortium
    Resource type: video
    Duration: 41 minutes

    Available from: MA library loan
    or for sale from Madingley, tel 01954 210636.
  4. Refresher Chairmanship Training Programme
    Applicable to training in: chairmanship (adult)
    A programme used in Buchinghamshire for refresher chairmanship training, giving Court Chairman the opportunity to practice their court skills using role-play and feedback. (Requires skilled facilitators). Programme, tutor notes & case studies are included.
    Produced by: Wycombe & Beaconsfield Magistrates' Courts
    Production date: 1998
    Authors: Phillip Knowles, Peter Willingham, Tony Kaye & Sue Walton
    Resource type: training notes
    Available from: MA library loan
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Communication Skills

  1. Asking Questions
    Applicable to training in: appraisal, training skills, communications
    Asking the right questions can be important in many situations. The book offers guidance on: using forms of open question; encouraging speakers through supportive statements; establishing specific facts through direct questions; avoiding counter-productive questions; using questions in training. Part of the 'Management Shapers' series of books.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1995
    Author: Ian Mackay
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan
  2. Any Questions from the Bench
    Applicable to training in: communications, general magistracy
    Training pack designed to help magistrates develop their questioning skills. Contains notes for trainers on making use of the material, a one day programme for bail, mode of trial and adjournment. Also includes two 2 hour sessions focussing on mode of trial, and general questioning tips. Though some material is out of date, this is still relevant.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1993
    Resource type: conference paper, training pack
    Available from: MA free copy
  3. Body Language at Work
    Applicable to training in: communications, training skills
    While eliminating the common misconceptions around body language, this book covers: how we betray attitudes and personality in non-verbal ways; what body language can and can't communicate; the nature and meaning of signals. Part of the 'Management Shapers' series of books.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1999
    Author: Adrian Furnham
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan
  4. Constructive Feedback
    Applicable to training in: appraisal, communications, training skills
    The book helps identify when to give feedback, how best to give it, and how to receive and using feedback for yourself. Offers advice on distinguishing between destructive criticism and constructive feedback, improving feedback skills and eliciting the right feedback for yourself. Part of the 'Management Shapers' series of books.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1996
    Authors: Frances and Roland Bee
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan
  5. Effective Communication In & Out Of Court
    Applicable to training in: communications
    Training Pack includes outline of converence; resource section with exercises, retiring room case studies, checklists and overheads; background information. Ranges from basic communication; active listening to dealing with interpreters. Still useful.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1992
    Resource type: conference paper, training pack
    Available from: MA free copy
  6. Introducing Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)
    Applicable to training in: communications, training skills
    Neuro Linguistic Programming provides easily learned techniques to enhance communication and interpersonal skills. The book covers (among others) : building rapport by picking up on voice, speech and body language; learning how others perceive the world, to present ideas in ways they accept; turning negative experiences to positive opportunities. Part of the 'Management Shapers' series of books.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1999
    Author: Sue Knight
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan
  7. Listening Skills
    Applicable to training in: communications, appraisal, training skills
    The book describes techniques and activities to improve your ability and makes clear why effective listening is such a crucial skills. Explanations help the reader: recognise the inhibitors to listening; listen to what is really being said by analysing and evaluating the message; ask the right questions; and interpret non-verbal signals. Part of the 'Management Shapers' series of books.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1995
    Author: Ian Mackay
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan
  8. Speak For Yourself
    Applicable to training in: communications
    A practical guide to giving successful presentaiton and talks. Includes tips on preparation of material, interaction with the audience and using props. Accompanied by book, trainer notes and self-study workbook.
    Produced by: BBC for business
    Production date: 1990
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 26 minutes
    Available from: MA library loan
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Community Sentences

  1. Thinking It Through
    Applicable to training in: community sentences, sentencing
    A trigger video and training manual on developing skills in challenging offenders and managing risk. Although the primary targets of this video are those working directly with offender, there are a range of applications for sentencers, including helping them to understand the nature of, and supporting appropriate referrals to, bail hostels. The guidance manual outlines suggested uses and training methods.
    Produced by: Home Office Probation Training Unit
    Production date: 1995
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 1hr 10mins
    Available from: MA library loan
  2. Community Sentences - the Probation Service
    Applicable to training in: community sentences, sentencing
    Video which aims to show what community sentences mean in practice. Designed for use in the training of judges and magistrates. Covers PSRs, CSOs, Probation Orders and Combindation orders
    Produced by: Home Office Probation Unit
    Production date: 1994
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan
  3. Community Sentences
    Applicable to training in: community sentences, sentencing
    Produced with the co-opeation of the probation service, a pack to raise magistrates' awareness of the context within which community penalties are imposed and the range of options available to magistrates when sentencing.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA library loan
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Family

  1. A Case For Balance: Demonstrating good practice when children are witnesses
    Applicable to training in: family, victims & witnesses
    Aimed primarily at judges and lawyers dealing with child witnesses, though still useful for magistrates. Approved by the JSB and supported/funded by a variety of relevant organisations. Covers pre-trial planning, information about the child, advance planning of the trial day, introductions to the child, use of the TV link.
    Produced by: NSPCC/Dept. of Health/LCD
    Production date: 1989
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan
  2. The Children Act 1989: Putting it into practice
    Applicable to training in: family, legislation
    Also includes an individual Study Pack on Child Abuse and Neglect.
    Produced by: Open University
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  3. Care & Adoption - Recent developments
    Applicable to training in: family
    Intended for advocates outlining legal developments in care/adoption procedures. Of tangential interest to family magistrates.
    Produced by: College of Law/Legal Network Television
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan
  4. Not Alone - A childrens' guide to care proceedings
    Applicable to training in: family
    Aimed at both children aged 8-12 invovled in care proceedings and those professionals that work with them, as well as parents involved. Pack includes video, user's handbook, children's activity workbooks and playing cards.
    Produced by: Dept of Health/LCD/Home Office/NSPCC
    Production date: 1995
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 17 minutes
    Available from: MA library loan
  5. The Role of the Family Panel Chairman
    Applicable to training in: family
    Notes from presentaiton on the (then) New Children Act, mediation and the magistracy, defining competence, training and support.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1994
    Resource type: conference paper
    Available from: MA free copy
  6. Welfare of the Child: Assessing evidence in children cases
    Applicable to training in: family
    A series of workbooks allowing for self-study and guided training on refresher family panel training. Aims to enable magistrates to receive and evaluate evidence from expert witnesses and select effectively a course of action least detrimental to the child. Covers: asking the right questions; assessing evidence; approaching decisions openly without bias; making informed decisions - with a view to the consequence of these decisions; and explaining decisions. Pack includes introductory workbook, 6 self-study workbooks and a group leader's guide.
    Produced by: 'The Learning Business' on behalf of the MA
    Production date: 1994
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: The Learning Business, tel 01793 828100
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Fines and Fine Enforcement

  1. Fines Enforcement
    Applicable to training in: fines, sentencing
    A short session raising participants' awareness of the options available when setting and enforcing fines. This explores achieving a balance between setting realistic and just fines for offences. The session involves some case studies and makes use of the 'Guidance on the Enforcement of Financial Penalties produced by the Lord Chancellor's Department.
    Produced by: MA
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
  2. Living on a Low Income
    Applicable to training in: fines, sentencing
    Increasing understanding of the necessities of living on a low income and debt management to enable sentencers to set realistic fine levels. Produced in co-operation with the Nation Association of Citizen's Advice Bureaux money advice centres. Acts as a pre-cursor to the toolkit on fines enforcement.
    Produced by: MA
    Resource type:
    toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
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General Interest (Background)

  1. CPS Code for Crown Prosecutors
    Applicable to training in: general interest (background)
    Created for the CPS but of tangential interest to magistrates.
    Produced by: CPS
    Production date: 06/94
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 35 minutes
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from CPS, 50 Ludgate Hill, London EC4M 7EX, tel 020 7796 8000.
  2. Presentation Skills for Probation Staff
    Applicable to training in: general interest (background), community sentences
    Training pack geared at probation staff, includes special references to presentations for magistrates and judges.
    Produced by: Home Office Probation Unit
    Production date: 1998
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  3. Summary Trial Advocacy
    Applicable to training in: general interest (background)
    Two videos intended for training advocates. This may be of tangential interest to magistrates. Includes viewing sheet/user notes.
    Produced by: College of Law/Legal Network Television
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from College of Law/Legal Network Television, 2 Bream’s Buildings, Chancery Lane, London EC4A 1PJ, tel 020 7611 7400, fax 020 7611 7444, www.lawcol.org.uk
  4. The Will to Learn
    Applicable to training in: general interest (background)
    A video and accompanying research paper on supported distance learning in prisons. Of tangential interest.
    Produced by: Prisoner's Education Trust
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan
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General Magistracy

  1. After the Adult Court, What Next?
    Applicable to training in: general magistracy
    A plan for a training session letting new magistrates new about the sort of 'career paths' open to them in the magistracy. This includes different courts, various committees and liaison groups. (Toolkit No. 1)
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1996
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
  2. An Introduction to Judicial Decision Making
    Applicable to training in: general magistracy
    A book intended for background reading giving the reader an insight into what goes on when a judicial decision is being made. This exposes the various mechanisms of decision making and the pitfalls and ploys presented by some of those involved in the Criminal Justice System to influence decision making.
    Produced by: Barry Rose Publishers Ltd
    Production date: 1999
    Authors: Brian P. Block
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from Barry Rose Law Publishers Ltd, Little London, Chichester, West Sussex.
  3. The Courtroom in Context
    Applicable to training in: general magistracy
    Covers the relationships and interaction between the various agencies involved in the Criminal Justice System and magistrates.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1991
    Resource type: conference paper
    Available from: MA free copy
  4. Facing the Challenge of Change: Improving performance in the magistrates' courts
    Applicable to training in: general magistracy, appraisal, sentencing, communications, training issues, fines, case management
    A joint training pack including several training sessions in a variety of areas where magistrates and professional staff can work together to improve performance.
    Produced by: MA/JCS
    Production date: May 1999
    Resource type: conference paper, training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  5. Help - Omnibus Programme - 'Public Service Jobs'
    Applicable to training in: introduction to magistracy
    In this short programme, three public service roles are explained - magistrates, councillors and school governors. Includes an interview with Joyce Rose and a young magistrate. For recruitment purposes.
    Produced by: BBC Television
    Production date: Jan 1992
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 10 minutes
    Available from: MA library loan
  6. Magistrates' Companion to the Competencies
    Applicable to training in: general magistracy; training issues
    A book designed to accompany the Magistrates' New Training Initiative competences designed as a textbook for magistrates to assist with the competences.
    Produced by: Leeds University
    Production date: May 2001
    Author: Janet Carter
    Resource type: publication

    Available from: please send a cheque, made payable to Lawtexts, PO Box 289, Leeds, LS6 3YG, £18.00 inc p&p
  7. NB: JP - Notes to assist justices taking notes
    Applicable to training in: general magistracy, communications
    Practical advice and useful tips on taking notes effectively in court. Covers topics like attitudes, methods, suggested layouts for notes, using the notes efficiently and quantifying the data. Written in a clear, user-friendly style.
    Produced by: Hampshire MCC
    Production date: 1987 (rev. 1993)
    Author: John Wagstaff (revised by Ian McConnel)
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan, MA free copy
  8. Sitting in Judgement - Summer conference tapes
    Applicable to training in: general magistracy, sentencing
    Presentations from Mary Tuck, Elizabeth Butler-Sloss, Roger Graef and Chris Nuttall.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1994
    Resource type: audiotape, 4 tapes
    Available from: MA library loan
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Introduction to the Magistracy / Induction

  1. The Challenging Business of Justice
    Applicable to training in: introduction to magistracy
    This covers the work of the Magistrates' Court' Service and was made to aid recruitment of court staff. It covers the everyday workings of court and provides a good general introduction to the business of a magistrates' court.
    Produced by: The Home Office
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan
  2. Open to View
    Applicable to training in: introduction to magistracy, induction,
    Intended as a resource for training newly appointed magistrates and as a means of providing information for the general public and other agencies about who magistrates are, how they are appointed and what they do. Video & user's notes.
    Produced by: Magistrates Training Video Consortium
    Production date: 1998
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 30 minutes
    Available from: MA library loan
    or for sale from Madingley, tel 01954 210636
  3. What do you know about magistrates' courts?
    Applicable to training in: introduction to magistracy
    Geared for Use at Open Days providing general information about magistrates' courts and magistrates.
    Produced by: Hounslow MCC
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan or from Hounslow MCC, Hanworth Road, Feltham, Middlesex TW13 5AF, tel 020 8751 3727,fax 020 8844 1779
  4. You too could be a magistrate
    Applicable to training in: introduction to magistracy
    Targeted at would be magistrates. It gives further information about the selection process and the qualities required. To be used in recruitment.
    Produced by: LCD
    Resource type:
    video
    Duration if video: 13 minutes
    Available form: MA library loan
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Legislation

  1. Criminal Justice Act 1991
    Applicable to training in: legislation
    Training materials produced by the JSB for the 1991 Criminal Justice Act. Includes trainer guide, resource material and self-study programme.
    Produced by: Judicial Studies Board
    Authors: various
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  2. Human Rights Act 1998: An overview (578)
    Applicable to training in: Human Rights Act
    Designed for lawyers this video introduces the Human Rights Act and is designed as a training tool.
    Produced by: College of Law of England and Wales
    Production date: 1999
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan
  3. Human Rights & Criminal Justice (574)
    Applicable to training in: Human Rights Act
    Designed for lawyers this video introduces the Human Rights Act and its effect on the criminal justice system in general terms.
    Produced by: College of Law of England and Wales
    Production date: 1999
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan
  4. Human Rights: Impact on Family Law (577)
    Applicable to training in: Human Rights Act
    Designed for lawyers this video introduces the Human Rights Act with regard to how it affects procedure in the family court. The video is designed to provoke discussion and as a training tool.
    Produced by: College of Law of England and Wales
    Production date: 1999
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan
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Licensing

  1. Licensing Matters
    Applicable to training in: licensing
    Notes on a conference for licensing justices. Presentations on alcohol and society, children's certificates, issues of fitness and need, the police role, good practice. Also includes background information such as statements on National Licensees Certificates and Children's certificates.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1995
    Resource type: conference paper
    Available from: MA free copy
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Minority Groups / Equal Opportunties

  1. Barriers to Justice
    Applicable to training in: minority groups/equal opportunities
    A study into how the Criminal Justice System treats people with learning disabilities. Useful booklet for background reading.
    Produced by: Mencap
    Production date: 1999
    Resource type: publication, background - resource
    Available from: Mencap, tel 020 7454 0454
  2. Dealing with Disadvantage
    Applicable to training in: minority groups/equal opportunities
    Covers specific areas of disadvantage, namely: homelessness, physical disability, alcohol & drugs, adult illiteracy, mental health. Some information (eg on benefits) is out of date, although this would still be a useful background resource
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1991
    Resource type: conference paper
    Available from: MA free copy
  3. Equal Opportunities: Workshop material for trainers
    Applicable to training in: minority groups/equal opportunities
    Produced by: Lord Chancellors' Department
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  4. Equal Treatment Training for Magistrates - Training materials
    Applicable to training in: minority groups/equal ops
    A set of training materials on equal treatment awareness designed to be used with all other areas of training. The pack includes four modules on: challenging discrimination; discretion and decision making; prejudice & stereotype; and raising awareness. There are also fact sheets and suggested resources. This pack has already been distributed to every MCC Training Officer.
    Produced by: JSB and NACRO
    Production date: March 1998
    Authors: National Association for Care and Resettlement of Offenders - Race and Criminal Justice Unit
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  5. Evidence Unseen
    Applicable to training in: minority groups/equal ops
    A trigger video offering factual evidence and magistrates' experiences to stimulate structured group discussion on the need for racial awareness in the justice system. Video is accompanied by trainer's notes which give pointers for the discussion; supplement with transcribed extracts for the trainer to read out; and give background information.
    Produced by: Mosaic, BBC Education
    Production date: 1991
    Author: John Twitchin (trainers notes)
    Resource type: video, training notes
    Duration if video: 30 minutes
    Available from: MA library loan or from BBC Education, tel 020 8991 8031
  6. Justice & Care, Hand in Hand - The mentally disordered offender
    Applicable to training in: minority groups/equal opportunities
    Heightening magistrates' awareness of MDOs and informing them of multi agency assessment schemes. (toolkit no. 3)
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: May 1996
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
  7. Justice for All
    Applicable to training in: minority groups/equal opportunities
    Contains background information on equal opportunities training : training exercises on equal opportunities and tackling prejudice; suggested ways of using conference material in designing sessions; background resources - eg oaths & oath taking information. Although some of the contents have been superceded by later publications, the information is still useful.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1992
    Resource type: conference paper, training pack
    Available from: MA free copy
  8. Mental Health Awareness Training Pack
    Applicable to training in: minority groups/equal opportunities
    A training pack setting out a one day training session to enable magistrates to deal appropriately with defendants who may have mental health problems. The pack includes a video and an audiocassette. It is being distributed to each MCC.
    Produced by: JSB
    Production date: 1999
    Authors: JCS, National Schizophrenia Fellowship, Magistrates’ Association, JSB
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: from your MCC
  9. Race Issues & the Criminal Justice System
    Applicable to training in: minority groups/equal ops
    Notes from a number of speakers respresenting the Race Issues Sub-Group, the LCD, the Criminal Justice Policy Unit at the Home Office, NACRO and other relevant organisations. Discussions on eliminating racism from the courts and moving on from the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry.
    Produced by: Home Office Special Conference Unit
    Production date: January 2000
    Resource type: conference paper
    Available from: MA free copy
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Micellaneous

  1. Caution or Casualty - Health & Safety Cases
    Applicable to training in: miscellaneous topics, sentencing
    Raising awareness of factors affecting seriousness of cases related to Health and Safety issues. Produced with the co-operation of the Health and Safety Executive. Explains the Health and Safety Executive approach to enforcement.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
  2. Cruelty to Animals
    Applicable to training in: miscellaneours topics
    A toolkit developed in conjunction with the RSPCA to heighten magistrates' awareness of how they are able to exert their legal powers to prevent cruelty to animals. The material is designed for a short evening programme which involves presentations from RSPCA inspectors.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
  3. Hitting the Bottle - Alcohol & the offender
    Applicable to training in: miscellaneours topics
    Design for a training session raising awareness on the relevance of alcohol problems to sentencing and also of local prevention strategies. (toolkit no. 2)
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1996
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
  4. Paying the Environmental Price
    Applicable to training in: miscellaneours topics
    Produced with the co-operation of the Environment Agency to raise awareness of sentencing options for environmental law and clarifying complex/technical aspects of the law.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
  5. Prison Visits Training Pack
    Applicable to training in: miscellaneours topics
    To assist those organising magistrates' training visits to prisons. Develope with the support of the Prison Service, the pack includes background information on preparation, conducting the visit and feedback, as well as a resource section.
    Produced by: MA with approval of Prison Service
    Production date: 1996
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA free copy
  6. Road Works (Road traffic training session)
    Applicable to training in: miscellaneours topics
    Design for a training session clarifying complex aspects of road traffic cases and options for sentencing.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1996
    Resource type: toolkit
    Available from: MA free copy
  7. Violence Against Women: Criminal justice conference
    Applicable to training in: miscellaneours
    From a conference hosted by the Criminal Policy Strategy Unit of the Home Office. Notes of the presentations by speakers including the Deputy Home Secretary, Victim Support, Women's Aid and the Police
    Produced by: Home Office Special Conference Unit
    Production date: January 2000
    Resource type: conference paper
    Available from: MA free copy
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Sentencing

  1. Preparation for Using Sentencing Guidelines 2000 - Training pack
    Applicable to training in: sentencing
    A training pack outlining a short session to introduce participants to the latest issue of the sentencing guidelines. While it was designed to accompany the new guidelines, this can also be used with new magistrates or those unfamiliar with using these guidelines.
    Produced by: Magistrates' Association
    Production date: 1998
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA free copy
  2. Sitting in Judgement
    Applicable to training in: sentencing
    Presentation on sentencing patterns, exercising judgement in the public eye, race and sentencing, promoting objectivity and the role of the magistracy in a changing world.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1994
    Resource type: conference paper
    Available from: MA free copy
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Training Issues

  1. Branch Training Organiser's Handbook
    Applicable to training in: training issues, training skills
    A handbook targeted at branch training liaison officers or other members of Association branches closely involved in designing and/or organising training. Contains many useful tips as well as general resources relevant to the Training Organiser.
    Produced by: MA
    Resource type:
    manual
    Available from: MA free copy
  2. JCS/MA Joint Partnership in Training
    Applicable to training in: training issues
    Both a summary of conference recommendations, ideas and notes from the JCS/MA conference in 1997. Both MCC Training Officers and magistrates reps attended. Aimed at pooling resources between magistrates and clerks in training magistrates. Included is an outline for a one day training session on how to develop partnership in training locally.
    Produced by: MA/JCS
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: conference paper, training notes
    Available from: MA free copy
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Training Skills for Trainers

  1. Encouraging Positive Participation
    Applicable to training in: training skills
    One of a series of 'Trainers' Kitbag', which includes a manual of participative exercises to use with groups and accompanying tutor's notes on the importance of participation in training and how the exercises can be used. Contains some useful information for those that wish to incorporate participative exercises into their training.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1999
    Author: Suzy Siddons
    Resource type: training pack
    Available from: MA library loan
  2. Facilitation Skills
    Applicable to training in: training skills
    The book's aim is to explain what is meant by 'facilitation' in training, how to develop the knowledge and skills to become a successful facilitator and why facilitation is so important. Includes chapters on such topics as 'picking up signals from the group', 'designing learning sessions', 'dealing with challenging situations' and 'useful processes for facilitating'.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1998
    Authors: Frances and Roland Bee
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan
  3. Identifying Training Needs
    Applicable to training in: training skills
    Under MNTI, identifying training needs effectively is crucial. The book covers: identifying organisational needs, identifying group needs using various techniques; assembling information from various sources such as records and interviews; analsying the data with cost-benefit comparisons in ways which relate to measurable results. Part of the 'Training Essentials' Series.
    Produced by: Institute of Personnel & Development
    Production date: 1996
    Authors: Tom Boydell and Malcolm Leary
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan
  4. Key Terms & Issues in Open & Distance Learning
    Applicable to training in: training issues
    A glossary of important terms in open learning which are defined, described or discussed as appropriate. Practical advice is offered to supplement the entries, distinguising between issues and terms. Topics include: developmental testing;educational objectives; evaluation; media mix; quality control; telephone tutorials.
    Produced by: Kogan Page
    Production date: 1993
    Author: Barbara Hodgson
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from Kogan Page, 120 Pentonville Road, London N1 9JN
  5. The Open Learning Handbook - Promoting quality in designing and delivering flexible learning (2nd edition)
    Applicable to training in: training issues
    A self-sufficient reference work which focuses on the key issues for those producing open learning materials, as well as those who support the learners. Checklists etc are provided allowing users to make best use of the material. Topics covered include: learning cycles; piloting; tone and style; non-print media; feedback; and turning lecture notes into interactive handouts.
    Produced by: Kogan Page
    Production date: 1997
    Author: Phil Race
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from Kogan Page, 120 Pentonville Road, London N1 9JN
  6. Preparing Materials for Open, Distance and Flexible Learning - An action guide for teachers & trainers
    Applicable to training in: training issues
    A guide to all the key phases of planning and developing materials for open learners. Topics covered include: profiling your learners; agreeing aims and objectives; deciding content; developing examples/activities; making user-friendly materials.
    Produced by: Kogan Page in association with Open University
    Production date: 1996
    Author: Derek Rowntree
    Resource type: publication
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from Kogan Page, 120 Pentonville Road, London N1 9JN
  7. Ten Training Tips - John Townsend 'Masterclass'
    Applicable to training in: training skills
    Aimed at non-specialist trainers, this video and guide consists of 10 modules giving tips on how trainers can make their courses more memorable and effective.
    Produced by: Melrose
    Resource type: video, manual
    Duration if video: 35 Minutes
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from Melrose Film Productions, 16 Bromells Road, London SW4 0BL
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Victims and Witnesses

  1. Lancashire Magistrates' Court - A witnesses' guide
    Applicable to training in: victims & witnesses
    A guide for the uninitiated to the day in court, answering all the questions a witness may need to know.
    Produced by: Lancashire Magistrates' courts
    Production date: 1998
    Resource type: video
    Available from: MA library loan
  2. Outer London Magistrates' Courts - A witnesses’ guide
    Applicable to training in: victims & witnesses
    A guide for witnesses to help them prepare for their day in court. Copy donated by the Wood Street Studio
    Produced by: Outer London Magistrates' Courts & The Wood St. Studio
    Production date: 1999
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 12 mins 25 seconds
    Available from: MA library loan
  3. Victims & Witnesses Summer Conference Presentations
    Applicable to training in: victims & witnesses
    Presentations by Chris Nuttall, Helen Reeves, Joanna Shapland, John Hoddinnott, Rosemary Melling, Tony Edwards, Kevin McCormac, Dru Sharpling
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1996
    Resource type: audiotape
    Available from: MA library loan
  4. Victims & Witnesses
    Applicable to training in: victims & witnesses
    Conference on raising awareness of who the victims are, their experiences of the CJS and how magistrates can help meet some of their needs. Training pack is a comprehensive pack for running an event on raising awareness of their needs within the system. Includes a choice of programmes, detailed session/tutor notes, exercises, handouts and overheads.
    Produced by: MA
    Production date: 1996 & 1997
    Resource type: training pack, conference paper
    Available from: MA free copy
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Youth

  1. Restorative Justice - A Balanced Approach
    Applicable to training in: youth community sentences
    A documentary style programme which plots Thames Valley police's journey into developing restorative justice. Draws on the audit commission's report 'Misspent Youth' and the experiences of victims, the Probation Service and young offenders. Actors re-enact a restorative conference.
    Produced by: Thames Valley Police
    Production date: 1997
    Resource type: video
    Duration if video: 22 minutes
    Available from: MA library loan or for sale from United Television, 12-14 Argyll Street, London W1V 1AB, tel 020 7287 2727
  2. The Youth Court
    Applicable to training in: youth
    This video is intended to contribute to the training of Youth Panel Magistrates. It aims to introduce those newly appointed to the work of the Youth Court and contribute to the development of the skills they will need to be effective on the panel. The pack includes tutor notes and one tape.
    Produced by: Magistrates' Training Video Consortium
    Resource type: video, manual
    Duration if video:
    37 minutes
    Available from: MA library loan
  3. Youth Justice : Conference for the Beds, Herts, Kent & Sussex area committees
    Applicable to training in: youth
    Conference notes of various speakers on topics such as Youth Offending Teams, the Prison Service, Tackling Delay and Youth Justice Crime reduction. Background information for youth justices.
    Produced by: Home Office Special Conferences Unit
    Production date: February 1999
    Authors: Various
    Resource type: conference paper
    Available from: MA free copy

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