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Six Steps Methodology to Integrated Workforce Planning®

Our Six Steps Methodology to Integrated Workforce Planning® is the only methodology cited in the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan. It is a practical approach to planning that ensures you have a workforce of the right size with the right skills and competence.

The Methodology identifies those elements that should be in any workforce plan, taking into account the current and future demand for services, the local demographic situation and the impact on other services, whilst helping you work to the budget you can afford.

“Skills for Health’s Six-Step Methodology builds into the process of workforce planning essential elements to ensure the quality of services are both discussed and planned for.”

David Withers, Head of Education,
Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust

The Six Steps Methodology offers:

  • a systematic practical approach that supports the delivery of quality patient care, productivity and efficiency
  • assurance that workforce planning decisions taken are sustainable and realistic
  • a scalable approach, from small ward-based plans to large organisations
  • a joined-up approach with social care, where the same approach has been adopted.

The Six Steps are:

  • Step 1: Defining the plan
  • Step 2: Mapping service change
  • Step 3: Defining the required workforce
  • Step 4: Understanding workforce availability
  • Step 5: Planning to deliver the required workforce
  • Step 6: Implement, monitoring and refresh.

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