This is supplemented by training in specific skills required for particular posts. Further development opportunities occur as staff move periodically to different posts in the Service. Most training is carried out internally by the Service s own professionally-trained staff, though sometimes external training providers are also used. Some specialist staff are recruited with the required qualifications and expertise, while others, such as surveillance staff, are given intensive in-house training. Graduate entrants to the Service s general duties staff receive a six month training package which combines formal courses with substantial periods of work experience.
Staff also have the opportunity to study for relevant external qualifications.
The Staff Forum is a body of elected representatives from across the Service. It serves as a channel of communication to senior management of staff views on matters of general concern, and it provides a means of consultation on key issues such as terms and conditions of service and pay. Staff Forum business is conducted both through formal meetings, chaired by the Director General, and through continuing contacts and discussion between Forum representatives and members of the senior management and the personnel branch. Since 1987 all members of the Security Service, SIS and GCHQ have had access to an external Staff Counsellor. The Staff Counsellor is available for private consultation by any member of the three services who may have concerns about the nature or propriety of their work.