NIFCA Engineer visits Brixham Harbour during the AIFCA Enforcement Course
SUCCESS CRITERIA
STAFF & TRAINING
Throughout 2025/2026 NIFCA has continued to invest in the skills and development of its staff and members, ensuring everyone is equipped to carry out their roles effectively while meeting statutory requirements. Training has been developed through classroom sessions, practical exercises, online learning, and collaborative workshops with partner organisations. As always Enforcement training was a priority for our IFCO’s. Six IFCOs participated in a joint enforcement training workshop with the Environment Agency, Marine Management Organisation and Northumbria Police. Two officers completed the national AIFCA Competent Officer course. In addition, 5 IFCO’s participated in training with the Northeast Regional Organised Crime Team developing investigative techniques and presenting evidence for court. The Environmental Team benefitted from multiple training opportunities throughout the year. Nationally, IFCAs have setup a course designed for Environmental/Scientific/Research staff. One IFCO of the team attended the Environment, Science and Conservation with Lead Environmental Officer part of the national training team which delivered the course. One IFCO carried out the A2 Certificate of Competence to fly UAVs. These opportunities for external training events are of great benefit to both NIFCA and the team, boosting our operational capabilities to meet national standards Marine safety will always be a priority for the Authority. All sea going officers are compliant with Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) as required. To remain so, officers attended training in Personal Survival Techniques, Small Ships Radar and Navigation, Basic Firefighting and Fire Prevention, First Aid and Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities courses predominantly at South Tyneside Marine Collage. Three IFCO’s undertook man overboard awareness training through SEAFISH and the RNLI. Staff also enhanced seagoing skills with advanced powerboat and further RIB handling training through individual staff members commitments in the RNLI. Administrative and finance staff continued their professional development with tailored courses. All Staff undertook online training in Manual Handling Awareness, Prevention of Sexual Harassment, and GDPR. Officers also engaged with national forums such as the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) and the National Inshore Marine Enforcement Group (NIMEG), ensuring NIFCA remains connected to best practice nationally. In summary, the 2025–26 training programme was delivered in full, balancing statutory requirements with specialist and developmental opportunities. By continuing to invest in its people, NIFCA continues to strengthen enforcement capability, enhance scientific expertise, and maintain its commitment to professional growth, ensuring the Authority is well-equipped to meet responsibilities and maintain stakeholder confidence into the future.
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