"Engaging, informative, excellent.” Motivational Interviewing with Stoke on Trent City Council, March 2025

“This was fantastic!  The best training I have been on in AGES.  This course should be mandatory for everyone working with children and families.  I can use all of the things that I’ve learned in all areas of my practice.  Thank you 😊”

Greetings one and all,

Well, it has been a fun packed week. Earlier this week I had the pleasure of training on my old stomping ground, the one and only, Stoke on Trent City Council.  By far, the best employer I ever had and it was lovely to hear the assembled learners describe how they all enjoyed their time with the council.  Local authorities seem to be getting a slew of bad press, and this constant barrage of cutbacks and criticisms could really erode people’s motivation. It was grand to spend time with people who are staying robust and resilient and wanting more than anything to make a difference to children, families and vulnerable adults across the city.     

The course that I delivered was social care specific Motivational Interviewing.  As you are all aware I have created my own training films for the course along with the various kinesthetic resources.  Feedback highlights how the learners appreciate the practical nature of the course and the way in which I allow everyone time to practice the skills.  As one learner stated:

“Very helpful training indeed.  It was interactive, and I had the opportunity to practice the techniques with others and Steven.  I have really enjoyed it and look forward to using the knowledge that I have gained.” 

Feedback was 100% positive, as you can see below: 

“I really enjoyed the exercises, the case studies, the level of interaction and the examples of MI.  The trainer (Steven) has a great delivery style.”

“It was all about learning how to flow in the conversation, wording things differently, using other words and not to use WHY!”

“This training was excellent and has improved my social work practice along with my motivational interviewing skills.” 

“I am so excited about this training because it has developed my understanding of making effective positive change a reality for my children and families.” 

“Steven was brilliant and very informative.  I really enjoyed this training, both funny and interactive, LOVED it.” 

“VERY interactive, and FUNNY! 😊”

“I found the interactive nature of the training very beneficial to my learning, ensuring that I embedded the skills and they will remain with me.  I really enjoyed your training Steven, engaging, informative, excellent.” 

“Very useful training and this will definitely improve my practice with the families that I am working with.” 

“Very informative and a great interactive session in which I enjoyed all of the activities and the six step change plan will be great.  I will definitely be using what I have learned with my clients.  Thank you.” 

“Excellent.  Very knowledgeable trainer.  Interactive and enjoyable.”