Converting the Sector Skills Agreement into Action
As part of realising the Sector Skills Agreement for Health in England, Skills for Health has brokered a new multi-million pound Joint Investment Framework between Strategic Health Authorities and the Learning and Skills Council.
Over time, the deal will see up to £100m of extra funds being injected annually into the health service in England to tackle skills gaps and shortages. By developing the skills of healthcare staff the aim is to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and the highest levels of service.
The Framework represents a major step towards achieving the demand-led skills system recommended in the December 2006 Leitch review of skills.
Supported through partnership
This investment by the sector and employers demonstrates significant support for the pledge to raise skills levels in the UK healthcare workforce. The work has emerged from a strong partnership approach and will be given strategic support through the newly established Health Sector Strategic Alliance. The alliance will comprise members from SHAs, the Department of Health (England), employers including those from the independent and voluntary parts of the sector, Skills for Health, the Learning and Skills Council and the Trades Unions.
The framework is built around a flexible approach so that healthcare training and development is delivered to meet regional and local need, as identified by employers. Investment will be targeted at healthcare employees, funding Apprenticeships, Skills for Life and other skills development and qualifications at levels 2, 3 and 4.
Ann Keen, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Health, has endorsed the agreement. In a recent press release, she indicated the agreement demonstrated the value placed on the health workforce and evidence of commitment to their training and development. For those working in the healthcare sector it will mean increased opportunities and better prospects; for employers, it will ensure a higher skilled, more flexible workforce; and for patients, it will result in improved levels of service and care.
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