In order to use the VERA-2R as a foundation for violent extremism risk assessment and risk management, the certified two-day VERA-2R training course must be completed successfully. The training is provided by internationally experienced trainers. In the training, relevant theoretical concepts about risk assessment and terrorism are explained, including different forms of extremism, specific target groups, developments in risk assessment and the specifics and challenges related to risk assessment of violent extremism. The background of the factors, the SPJ-methodology of the VERA-2R, relevant disclaimers and user criteria about the VERA-2R are discussed. After the essential theoretical framework, the training will continue with the application of the VERA-2R to actual case-exercises. In group training, cases are discussed and coded in small groups with general consensus following a plenary discussion. All cases are analysed according to the user guidelines of the VERA-2R. Participants learn how to understand and evaluate all relevant risk indicators, integrate them into a case-specific risk formulation, consider relevant risk scenario’s, and establish an evidence-based risk management plan.
The VERA-2R training is a competency-based group training. Participants learn from the scientific and practical training material and the principle of ‘learning by doing’ stimulates knowledge, skills and attitudes that are necessary to apply the tool in professional practice. The training programme takes into account differences in background and experience of the participants.
Conditions
The certified VERA-2R training program is a two-day group training that can be organized digitally as well as on-site. The on-site option provides two consecutive days at a venue. The digital option is generally divided into four dayparts because two consecutive days behind a screen may be too exhausting. The group size varies between ten and, at most, twenty participants. The group setting is used to stimulate learning from colleagues as well as from the trainers who have theoretical and operational experience with the VERA-2R.
The training prepares the participants as much as possible for each individuals’ future usage of the tool. Participants are required to complete some preparatory reading, including information on the principles of the Structured Professional Judgment approach of the VERA-2R. They may also be asked to prepare some questions about their working environment and future goals with the VERA-2R. It is possible that the supervising trainer, or one of the assigned trainers, has an in-depth preparatory meeting with the requesting manager prior to the training. In such a meeting the conditions of the training are discussed as well as the possibility to include certain tailor-made elements in the training.
After having successfully completed the training, participants receive the official VERA-2R manual (available in several languages) and are included in the register for certified users. The NIFP monitors all certified users in Europe and invites them for periodic recertification programs.
Recertification
Continuous learning principles are advised. Professionals using the VERA-2R should remain informed of the research and operational knowledge of violent extremism and terrorism and its accompanying risk characteristics. To facilitate this, the NIFP organizes periodic recertification programs to every professional in the register. Two years after having completed the certified training, professionals are invited to attend this follow-up training. These recertification programs focus on relevant developments in violent extremism, terrorism and risk assessment research.