Training may be needed for, amongst others, hygiene promoters, community mobilisers, WASH groups, clubs or committees and community leaders. Training can take different forms, such as classroom-based learning sessions, field work, mentoring or even self-study and online training, but it must respect the principles of adult learning and be as practical and interactive as possible. Didactic training methods that aim to fill people with information rather than develop critical thinking and reflection should be avoided. 

Capacity strengthening for WASH can cover a variety of issues such as communication (especially active listening, C.2), facilitation and mobilisation skills, behaviour change (chapter  B ), menstrual hygiene management P.7, community or household water testing P.3, latrine construction P.4, soap-making P.6 and handwashing facilities P.2. 

A community capacity strengthening plan should be structured and based on a rapid assessment of behavioural and learning barriers and needs. Some or all community members may have limited literacy skills and be unused to attending training sessions. This must be considered when planning mixed groups. Short training sessions with longer breaks and energisers may help. Communities affected by a crisis often have limited time available – especially women who carry the main burden of childcare and household responsibilities. Other groups, such as older people or persons with disabilities, may also be deterred from attending training if arrangements are not made to facilitate their access. 

One-off training sessions for hygiene promoters will be of little value unless accompanied by a plan for ongoing support. Ideally, all training should be planned and structured with training objectives identified with participants and linked to learning needs and expectations. Shadowing more experienced staff or volunteers can be very effective for learning, but it should be done in a structured way and provide opportunities for questions and reflections on what has been observed. Interpersonal skills such as empathy, effective listening and communication are vital for hygiene promoters and can support the process of handing over control and empowering others. Training and ongoing support may be needed for hygiene promoters/community mobilisers to develop such skills and attitudes and to promote greater community engagement. Hygiene promoters and volunteers will require supervision of some kind to support learning; regular meetings and mini training sessions can be organised to achieve this. 

In an acute emergency, any training conducted in a classroom or workshop may have to be broken down into short blocks. Training activities that are focused on implementation in the field should be prioritised. Training should focus on immediate and priority needs.

In some situations, people have become accustomed to receiving incentives for attending training sessions. Financial incentives are to be discouraged, but the provision of transport and food may be required (although where possible training should be organised locally).

Training and capacity strengthening and plans should be coordinated with other organisations and involve local facilitators and other training providers. Community members and learners should be involved in developing the plans.