Clinical Skills eLearning Courses & Training - ComplyPlus LMS™ - The Mandatory Training Group UK -

Clinical Skills eLearning Courses & Training

Clinical skills in the UK encompass many practical abilities that healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and allied health practitioners, must possess to deliver effective patient care. These skills are foundational to diagnosing, treating, and managing patients across various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community care environments. Core clinical skills include patient assessment, communication, history taking, physical examination, procedural skills (e.g., venepuncture, catheterisation), advanced life support, and making informed clinical decisions.

Training in these skills begins in undergraduate medical or healthcare education and continues throughout a professional's career through postgraduate training, continuous professional development, and reflective practice. The UK's regulatory bodies, such as the General Medical Council (GMC), Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), set the standards for clinical skills, ensuring healthcare professionals meet the required competencies for safe and effective practice. #ClinicalSkills

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Clinical skills courses & training

In the UK, clinical skills courses and training are integral to healthcare education and professional development, designed to equip practitioners with the practical skills necessary for patient care. These courses cover a broad spectrum, from basic procedures to advanced techniques, tailored for different healthcare roles, including doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.

Training is delivered through theoretical learning, hands-on practice in simulated environments, and supervised clinical placements. Regulatory bodies, such as the GMC, NMC, and HCPC, mandate these courses as part of the qualification and registration process. Furthermore, continuing professional development (CPD) programs offer ongoing training opportunities to ensure practitioners maintain and enhance their clinical skills throughout their careers. #HealthcareTraining

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Key definitions

Here are definitions for key terms relating to clinical skills:

• Clinical skills - The practical abilities required to examine, treat, and manage patients, including both technical procedures (e.g., venepuncture) and non-technical skills (e.g., communication, decision-making).
• Patient assessment - The systematic approach to gathering information about a patient, including history taking, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, to inform clinical decisions.
• History taking - The process of collecting a patient's medical, familial, and social history through questioning, which forms the foundation for patient assessment.
• Physical examination - The hands-on process of examining a patient using inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation to assess bodily functions and identify abnormalities.
• Procedural skills - Specific technical abilities required to perform medical procedures, such as inserting a catheter, drawing blood, or administering injections.
• Communication skills - Effectively communicating with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals is essential for ensuring quality patient care and teamwork.
• Clinical decision-making - The process of using clinical judgment to choose the appropriate course of action based on patient information, diagnostic results, and evidence-based guidelines.
• Advanced life support (ALS) -  A set of clinical interventions for the urgent treatment of cardiac arrest, stroke, and other life-threatening medical emergencies involving skills such as advanced airway management and drug administration.
• Continuous professional development (CPD) - Ongoing learning activities in which professionals maintain and enhance their knowledge, skills, and competence.
• Regulatory bodies - Organisations such as the General Medical Council (GMC), Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) that set standards for education, training, conduct, and performance for healthcare professionals in the UK.

These terms collectively represent the foundation of clinical practice, ensuring healthcare professionals are equipped to provide high-quality, safe, and effective patient care. #ProfessionalDevelopment

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Legislation, regulations and expert guidance

In the UK, clinical skills are governed by a combination of legislation, regulations, and expert guidance to ensure high standards of practice and patient safety. The Health and Social Care Act, mainly its updates, sets the legislative framework for healthcare provision and quality.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) enforces standards and regulations for healthcare services. Regulatory bodies, such as the General Medical Council (GMC) for doctors, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for nurses, and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for allied health professionals, provide profession-specific guidelines.

These organisations publish up-to-date guidance on clinical skills, competencies, and continuous professional development (CPD) requirements, reflecting the latest evidence-based practices and technological advancements in healthcare. #OnlineTraining

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Regulatory and professional bodies

In the UK, several regulatory and professional bodies oversee clinical skills across different healthcare professions. The General Medical Council (GMC) regulates doctors, ensuring their education, training, and practice meet high standards. The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) oversees nurses and midwives, setting standards for their education, training, conduct, and performance. The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) regulates allied health professionals, including paramedics, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists.

The General Dental Council (GDC) is also responsible for dental professionals. These bodies ensure that healthcare practitioners are competent, fit to practise, and adhere to professional standards, enhancing patient safety and care quality. #QualityCare

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Relevant national occupational standards

In the UK, National Occupational Standards (NOS) for clinical skills are comprehensive benchmarks designed to ensure healthcare professionals meet the required levels of competence and practice safely and effectively. These standards cover a wide range of clinical procedures and skills across various healthcare sectors. They are developed by Skills for Health, a sector skills council responsible for defining and updating the competencies healthcare workers need to deliver high-quality care.

NOS apply to numerous roles in nursing, allied health professions, and healthcare support roles. They outline the skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed for effective practice, informing the development of curricula for training programs and qualifications, and ensuring consistency and quality in healthcare service delivery. #CaregiverTraining

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CQC key questions and fundamental standards

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) in the UK assesses healthcare services against five key questions to ensure they provide high-quality care: Are they safe, effective, caring, responsive to people's needs, and well-led? Within this framework, clinical skills are most directly related to the "safe" and "effective" categories, ensuring that care is delivered safely and leads to the desired outcomes.

The fundamental standards relevant to clinical skills include:

• Safety - Protection from abuse and harm, safe care and treatment, proper use of medicines, and staff qualifications.
• Effectiveness - Evidence-based care and treatment, consent to care and treatment, and monitoring the quality of service provision.
• Staffing - Ensuring staff have the right qualifications, competence, skills, and experience to keep people safe and meet their needs.

These standards ensure that healthcare professionals possess the clinical skills to provide safe and effective care. #HealthAndSocialCare

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Aims, objectives and learning outcomes

Aims

The primary aim of the clinical skills course offered through ComplyPlus LMS™ is to enhance the quality of care provided by healthcare professionals, health and social care workers, nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, domiciliary care workers, and care home staff.

This course seeks to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding and proficiency in essential clinical skills, fostering a safe, effective, compassionate care environment. It focuses on bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring participants are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of their patients.

Objectives

• To provide a structured and evidence-based curriculum covering key clinical skills across various healthcare settings.
• To engage participants in interactive learning activities, including simulations, workshops, and reflective practice, to reinforce skill acquisition.
• To assess and evaluate participants' competency in performing essential clinical procedures safely and effectively.
• To encourage the development of critical thinking and decision-making skills through case studies and problem-solving exercises.
• To promote continuous professional development by integrating the latest best practices and technological advancements in healthcare.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Demonstrate proficiency in fundamental clinical skills, including patient assessment, vital signs monitoring, wound care, and infection control.
• Apply effective communication techniques with patients, families, and multidisciplinary team members.
• Safely perform specific procedural skills relevant to their role, such as venepuncture, catheterisation, and administering medication.
• Make informed clinical decisions based on patient assessments, evidence-based practice, and ethical considerations.
• Reflect on their practice, identify areas for improvement and engage in ongoing learning to enhance their clinical competence.
• Understand and apply the legal, professional, and ethical frameworks governing clinical practice in health and social care settings.

This structured approach ensures that upon completion, all participants, irrespective of their specific role, will have achieved a high standard of clinical skills, contributing to the overall safety and effectiveness of the care they provide. #PatientSafety

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Why are clinical skills training courses important?

Clinical skills training courses ensure that healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, and care home staff, possess the necessary competencies to provide safe, effective, and compassionate care. These courses bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling practitioners to perform essential procedures confidently and efficiently. They foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement, keeping staff up-to-date with the latest best practices and technological advancements in healthcare.

Significantly, clinical skills training enhances patient safety improves patient outcomes and supports professional development, ensuring healthcare workers are equipped to meet their patients' diverse and evolving needs. #ClinicalCompetencies

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Clinical Skills Distance Learning courses & training

Clinical skills distance learning courses and training, offered through platforms like ComplyPlus LMS™, provide a flexible and accessible way for healthcare professionals, nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, and care home staff to enhance their clinical competencies.

These identify online modules, virtual simulations, and video demonstrations to teach essential clinical skills, from patient assessment to complex procedures. Interactive assessments and virtual reality (VR) technology enable learners to practice and refine their skills in a safe, controlled environment. This learning mode supports continuous professional development, allowing individuals to update their skills per current best practices and guidelines, irrespective of their geographical location or work commitments. #SkillsDevelopment

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Clinical skills online training courses 

Clinical skills online training courses, such as those available through ComplyPlus LMS™, offer a convenient and accessible way for healthcare professionals across various roles to enhance their practical abilities. These courses cover a wide range of essential clinical skills, from basic procedures to advanced techniques, tailored to meet the specific needs of healthcare professionals, nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, care workers, domiciliary care workers, and care home staff.

Through interactive modules, video tutorials, quizzes, and virtual simulations, participants can learn at their own pace and convenience, ensuring flexibility in their learning journey while maintaining high skill acquisition and competence standards. #CareWorkers

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Free clinical skills E-Learning courses & training

Free clinical skills e-learning courses and training, available through platforms like ComplyPlus LMS™, offer a cost-effective way for healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, care workers, domiciliary care workers, and care home staff, to develop and refine their practical abilities.

These courses cover essential clinical skills relevant to different healthcare settings, such as patient assessment, wound care, medication administration, and infection control. Through interactive modules, videos, quizzes, and simulations, participants can learn and practice skills at their own pace, enhancing their competence and ensuring the delivery of high-quality care to patients. #CareHomeStaff

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Clinical skills train-the-trainer eLearning courses & training

Clinical skills train-the-trainer eLearning courses empower experienced healthcare professionals to become effective educators, imparting essential clinical skills to their peers and colleagues. Offered through platforms like ComplyPlus LMS™, these courses equip trainers with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to deliver comprehensive training programs in clinical skills.

Participants learn instructional techniques, curriculum development, assessment strategies, and effective communication methods for teaching clinical procedures to diverse audiences. Through interactive modules, case studies, and practical exercises, trainers gain confidence and competence in facilitating engaging and informative training sessions. Ultimately, these courses enable trainers to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement within healthcare organisations, ensuring high standards of care delivery. #ContinuousLearning

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Clinical skills on ComplyPlus LMS™

The Mandatory Training Group is a leading UK provider of accredited clinical skills courses and training available on ComplyPlus LMS™:

• Basic Life Support (BLS) Training
• Advanced Life Support (ALS) Training
• Infection Control Training
• Medication Administration Training
• Wound Care Training
• Patient Assessment Training
• Venepuncture Training
• Catheterisation Training
• Communication Skills Training
• Dementia Care Training
• Diabetes Management Training
• Elderly Care Training
• Palliative Care Training
• Mental Health First Aid Training
• Health and Safety Training
• Manual Handling Training
• Safeguarding Training
• Nutrition and Hydration Training
• Continence Care Training
• Pressure Ulcer Prevention Training
• Emergency Response Training
• Teamwork and Leadership Training
• Cultural Competency Training
• Clinical Documentation Training
• End-of-Life Care Training

These courses cater to a wide range of healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, social care workers, domiciliary care workers, and care home staff, covering essential clinical skills needed for their respective roles. Users can further explore specific training providers and platforms like ComplyPlus LMS™ to find courses tailored to their needs and requirements. #BestPractice

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Professional body recommendations and published best practice guidance

Relevant professional recommendations and published best practice guidance for clinical skills training courses include those issued by regulatory bodies such as the General Medical Council (GMC), Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Additionally, guidelines from professional organisations like the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) are essential. Peer-reviewed literature, such as articles in medical journals like The BMJ and Journal of Advanced Nursing, also contribute to evidence-based practice and inform the development of effective clinical skills training programs. #HealthcareAssistants

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Guidance for managers and leaders

Effective clinical skills are paramount for ensuring high-quality patient care and safety. Leaders and managers play a crucial role in promoting and maintaining these skills among their staff. Firstly, they must recognise that well-trained staff with up-to-date clinical skills are more competent, confident, and capable of delivering safe and effective care. To achieve this, leaders should

• Invest in comprehensive training programs - Provide access to reputable clinical skills training courses, such as those offered through ComplyPlus LMS™, tailored to the specific needs of healthcare professionals, social care workers, and support staff.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning - Encourage staff to participate in regular training and professional development activities to stay abreast of the latest best practices, guidelines, and technological advancements in healthcare.
• Establish clear policies and procedures - Develop and implement robust policies and procedures for clinical skills training, ensuring alignment with current legislation, regulations, and best practice recommendations from regulatory bodies and professional organisations.
• Ensure adequate resources and support - Allocate sufficient time, resources, and support for staff to engage in clinical skills training and practice, including access to simulation labs, training materials, and mentorship opportunities.
• Monitor and evaluate performance - Regularly assess staff competence and performance in clinical skills through objective measures, such as competency assessments, skills checklists, and clinical audits, to identify improvement areas and promptly address training needs.

By prioritising effective clinical skills training and implementing policies and procedures aligned with the latest standards and recommendations, leaders and managers can enhance patient outcomes, mitigate risks, and foster a culture of excellence within their healthcare organisations. #DoctorsTraining

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Clinical skills policy and procedures

Drafting comprehensive clinical skills policies and procedures requires careful consideration of relevant UK legislation, regulations, and international standards. Identify key legislation such as the Health and Social Care Act 2008, Care Act 2014, and Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which govern healthcare provision, safety, and quality. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements from bodies such as the Care Quality Commission (CQC), General Medical Council (GMC), Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Incorporate international standards like the World Health Organisation's (WHO) Patient Safety Curriculum Guide and International Classification for Patient Safety. Outline clear procedures for staff training, competency assessment, supervision, and continuous professional development. Include protocols for infection control, medication administration, patient assessment, and emergency response.

Regularly review and update policies to reflect changes in legislation, regulations, and best practice guidelines, ensuring alignment with the latest evidence-based practices and technological advancements in healthcare. Collaboration with stakeholders, consultation with legal experts, and staff engagement are essential for creating effective policies that promote patient safety, quality care, and staff competence. #PatientOutcomes

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The vital importance of effective clinical skills in UK healthcare settings

Effective clinical skills are the cornerstone of high-quality healthcare delivery in the UK. From hospitals and clinics to community care settings, skilled healthcare professionals with up-to-date clinical competencies ensure safe and effective patient care. Let's delve into these skills' significance and impact on patient outcomes. #RegulatoryCompliance

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Key facts and statistics

According to a British Medical Journal (BMJ) study, clinical errors account for a significant proportion of adverse events in healthcare settings, highlighting the importance of skilled practitioners.

The Health and Social Care Act 2008 mandates that healthcare providers must ensure staff possess the necessary skills and competencies to deliver safe care, underscoring the legal imperative for effective clinical training. #MedicalEducation

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Legislation, regulations, and best practice

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulates healthcare services in the UK, emphasising the need for staff training and competency assessment to meet the fundamental standards of care.

The General Medical Council (GMC), Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) provide guidance and regulations for healthcare professionals, emphasising the importance of continuous professional development in maintaining clinical skills. #ElderlyCare

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Why effective clinical skills matter

• Patient safety - Skilled practitioners can accurately assess and manage patient conditions, reducing the risk of adverse events and medical errors.
• Quality of care - Competent clinical skills contribute to delivering timely, efficient, and effective care, enhancing patient satisfaction and outcomes.
• Professional development - Continuous training and skill development empower healthcare professionals to stay abreast of evolving best practices and technological advancements, ensuring they provide the highest standard of care.

Implementing effective clinical skills training

• Invest in training programs - Utilise platforms like ComplyPlus LMS™ to access comprehensive clinical skills training tailored to various healthcare roles.
• Regular competency assessments - Implement regular assessments to evaluate staff proficiency and identify areas for improvement.
• Promote a culture of learning - Encourage staff engagement in continuous professional development activities to maintain and enhance clinical skills. #DomiciliaryCare

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Conclusion

Effective clinical skills are not just a requirement but a necessity in UK healthcare settings. By prioritising training, adherence to regulations, and continuous professional development, healthcare organisations can ensure staff competency of the healthcare team with the essential clinical skills they need to excel. Explore our range through interactive modules and simulation of clinical skills training to guide us LMS™ and take the first step towards enhancing patient care and safety. #NursingSkills

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Frequently asked questions

Here are 20 frequently asked questions (FAQs) and their answers regarding clinical skills:

What are clinical skills?

Clinical skills are healthcare professionals' abilities and competencies to provide safe and effective patient care. These skills include patient assessment, wound care, medication administration, and infection control.

Why are clinical skills important in healthcare?

Effective clinical skills are crucial for ensuring patient safety, quality care delivery, and positive patient outcomes. Skilled practitioners can accurately assess, diagnose, and treat patients, reducing the risk of adverse events and medical errors.

What legislation and regulations govern clinical skills in the UK?

Legislation such as the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and regulations from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) mandate that healthcare providers ensure staff possess the necessary skills and competencies to deliver safe care.

How does ComplyPlus LMS™ help with clinical skills training?

ComplyPlus LMS™ offers comprehensive clinical skills training courses tailored to various healthcare roles. Learners can acquire and practice essential clinical competencies conveniently and effectively through interactive modules and simulations.

What professional bodies guide clinical skills?

Professional bodies such as the General Medical Council (GMC), Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) provide guidance and regulations for healthcare professionals, emphasising the importance of continuous professional development in maintaining clinical skills.

How can healthcare professionals maintain and improve their clinical skills?

Healthcare professionals can maintain and improve their clinical skills through continuous professional development activities, including attending training courses, workshops, and conferences and engaging in reflective practice.

What are some common clinical skills training courses available?

Common clinical skills training courses include Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Life Support (ALS), Infection Control, Medication Administration, Wound Care, Patient Assessment, and Venepuncture.

How often should clinical skills training be updated?

Clinical skills training should be updated regularly to reflect changes in legislation, regulations, and best practice guidelines. Annual updates and ongoing competency assessments are recommended to ensure staff competence and safety.

What are the consequences of inadequate clinical skills training?

Inadequate clinical skills training can lead to medical errors, adverse events, patient harm, and legal liabilities. It can also compromise patient safety, quality of care, and staff morale.

How can managers ensure staff compliance with clinical skills training?

Managers can ensure staff compliance with clinical skills training by implementing clear policies and procedures, providing access to training resources, monitoring staff participation, and conducting regular competency assessments.

What resources are available for clinical skills training?

Resources for clinical skills training include online courses, workshops, simulation labs, training materials, competency assessments, and peer-reviewed literature.

How does clinical skills training benefit patient care?

Clinical skills training benefits patient care by enhancing staff competence, improving patient safety, reducing medical errors, and promoting positive patient outcomes.

What is the role of simulation in clinical skills training?

Simulation is an essential component of clinical skills training as it allows learners to practice clinical procedures in a safe and controlled environment, without putting patients at risk. It enhances skill acquisition, confidence, and competence.

How does clinical skills training contribute to professional development?

Clinical skills training contributes to professional development by keeping healthcare professionals up-to-date with current best practices, regulations, and technological advancements. It enhances their skills, knowledge, and confidence in delivering high-quality patient care.

What are the benefits of online clinical skills training courses?

Online clinical skills training courses offer flexibility, accessibility, and convenience for learners. They can access training modules anytime, anywhere, and at their own pace, allowing for a more personalised learning experience.

How does ComplyPlus LMS™ ensure compliance with legislation and regulations in clinical skills training?

ComplyPlus LMS™ ensures compliance with legislation and regulations by offering courses developed in accordance with current standards, guidelines, and best practices. Regular updates and assessments ensure that training content remains relevant and up-to-date.

What is the importance of continuous professional development in clinical skills?

Continuous professional development in clinical skills is essential for healthcare professionals to maintain competence, keep pace with advancements in healthcare, and deliver safe and effective patient care.

How can clinical skills training benefit healthcare organisations?

Clinical skills training benefits healthcare organisations by improving patient outcomes, reducing medical errors and adverse events, enhancing staff competence and morale, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

How can healthcare assistants and care workers benefit from clinical skills training?

Clinical skills training for healthcare assistants and care workers improves their ability to provide quality care, support registered professionals, and respond effectively to patient needs, ultimately enhancing the overall care experience.

What are some tips for effective implementation of clinical skills training policies and procedures?

Effective implementation of clinical skills training policies and procedures requires clear communication, adequate resources, staff engagement, regular monitoring, and continuous review and improvement to ensure alignment with current standards and best practices. #ComplyPlusLMS

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Why choose ComplyPlus LMS™?

Choose ComplyPlus LMS™ for your clinical skills training needs and experience comprehensive, convenient, and effective learning. Our platform offers tailored courses for healthcare professionals, social care workers, nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, and more. With interactive modules, simulations, and regular updates to align with legislation and best practices, you can ensure your staff are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge. Join us today to elevate your team's competency and provide the highest standard of care. Click here to start your clinical skills training journey with ComplyPlus LMS™ from The Mandatory Training Group UK. #MandatoryTrainingGroup

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Clinical Skills eLearning Courses & Training - ComplyPlus LMS™ - The Mandatory Training Group UK -