The VERA-2R is used worldwide in a variety of settings. Risk assessment reports based on the VERA-2R can play a major part in the decision-making process for judges, public prosecutors and prison directors. They need to understand the rationale behind the VERA-2R, the methodology and the relevant criteria and nuances.
For such professionals, a knowledge session is offered in which the background of the VERA-2R, the challenges related to risk analysis of violent extremism and the specific methodology and terminology of the VERA-2R are discussed. Key aspects of these sessions are questions such as ‘What is the VERA-2R?’ ‘Why is working with the VERA-2R important for the violent extremism target group?' ‘How should I read and interpret the results of a VERA-2R report? These sessions also address some disclaimers about the VERA-2R to avoid misconceptions and false expectations among recipients of VERA-2R risk reports. An example of a potential misconception is when recipients are under the assumption that the VERA-2R will lead to a numerical outcome on the risk of future violence, something that is not possible for this target population.
The recipients of these training sessions will learn how to optimally integrate the findings from a VERA-2R report into their own operational decision-making. Although these sessions do not result in certified user status, the enhanced knowledge about the VERA-2R will support inter-organisational cooperation and an increased understanding of both the strengths and constraints of the VERA-2R approach.
In the Netherlands, such knowledge sessions are obliged for all judges and prosecutors that are being prepared for their work in the field of violent extremism. These sessions usually take about half a day. For such expert sessions, a general training format is developed. Adjustments to the training to address any special needs or focus are possible. A knowledge session for prosecutors will undoubtedly have different nuances than one for prison management.