Regional Support Worker - PowerPoint Presentation

1. Regional Support Worker Career Pathway GuideEast of England Region

2. Contents:Support Worker Role Videos - Page 3 & 19Different roles as a Support Worker – Page 4Support Worker – a day in the life of – Page 5Starting as a Support Worker – Page 6Next steps as a Support Worker – Page 7Further Reading – Page 20 For further information please contact the authors: Helen Jones, Regional Retention Lead EoE, helen.jones114@nhs.netEmily Handley, Senior Nursing Workforce Manager EoE. emily.handley@nhs.net

3. Support Worker Role   

4. What is a Healthcare Support Worker (HCSW)? Healthcare support workers work across a variety of settings, from mental health to children’s services. Supporting registered healthcare professionals to deliver person centred care to patients in health care settings. There are various names for this role, what is the difference? In some trusts and settings, HCSWs have slightly different job titles such as Health Care Assistant (HCA), Nursing Assistant or Midwifery Assistant, depending on the chosen setting and the healthcare professionals they support.What support will they receive? HCSWs work under the supervision of a healthcare professional, supporting them and helping patients on their journey back to full health. What roles do HCSW undertake? It’s a hands-on role; settling an anxious patient, helping patients to move around, monitoring patients and performing basic health checks, making patients feel comfortable, helping patients to eat and drink, and to wash and dress, and taking blood. Communication and relationship building is key as patients are encouraged and supported to remain independent. In a GP surgery this could include; performing health checks, processing lab samples and sterilising equipmentWhat qualifications are required? There are no set entry requirements to become a Health Care Support Worker, but good literacy and numeracy skills are expected, and in some cases GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths are required too. Trusts may also need a healthcare qualification such as a BTEC or NVQ for some roles. Some experience of healthcare or care work may be beneficial from paid or voluntary work, or through experience from previous roles.What career opportunities are there? The opportunities for HCSWs to progress are endless, for instance individuals can choose to specialise in a particular setting, or train to qualify as a healthcare professional, such as a nurse or midwifeMore information: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/healthcare-support-worker/roles-healthcare-support-worker/healthcare-support-worker Different roles working in a health setting as a Health Care Support Worker

5. Support Workers provide care in a range of settingsA day in the life of - example of tasks in different care settings Across all settings Support Workers will be asked to support with various activities such as moving and handling people and objects as necessary, cleaning, stocking up equipment and supplies, demonstrating teamwork and communication skills, supporting other members of staff, patients/service users, and their relatives. There is an expectation that SWs complete relevant documentation appropriate to the role and escalate to the registered/ senior professional responsible for the area, or looking after the patient/service user making referrals to additional services as necessary. 

6. Starting as a Support Worker – timings will vary by organisationAll organisations enable their Support Workers to complete these steps, there is an expectation that progress is made to designated deadlines and all identified learning is completed by the SE to support them in their role.

7. Next Steps

8. Development is key to career progression; Continuing Professional Development (CPD) falls into two main categories: CPD – SW development non apprenticeships (Learning & development roadmap):Care CertificateFunctional Skills Level 1 & 2 in English & Math'sHigher Development AwardEdward Jenner (Leadership)Deteriorating patient programs such as BEACH or AIM (dependent on provider)Free learning available from Unions, Colleges, Universities, and online providers.Specialist local training according to role and settingOrganisation based in house trainingSW support roles such as a buddy or mentorLink/ champion rolesShadowing/ Supernumerary time/ attending Multi Disciplinary Team meetings English as a second language (ESOL) coursesCPD – SW development apprenticeships (Learning & development roadmap):Senior HCSW Level 3 ApprenticeshipTrainee Nursing Associate Apprenticeship Assistant Practitioner ApprenticeshipRegistered Nurse Degree ApprenticeshipComing soon Midwifery Apprenticeship Example pathway form HCSW to Registered NurseSW development ultimately supports workforce sustainability as staff can grow into future registrants.

9. Further information on opportunities to boost progressionThere are many online learning programmes available to help individuals develop additional skills and knowledge to maximise their chances of successful employment. Completing online training may be a relatively quick and easy way to address any gaps in their suitability for an identified role. They could also seek opportunities to gain experience in healthcare.Advanced statutory/mandatory trainingIndividuals may have already completed some of the statutory/ mandatory e-learning package for their role in the vaccination programme. Another opportunity to enhance future employability is to complete additional modules in this package (such as advanced Safeguarding or Resuscitation).Statutory/mandatory e-learning modules are available to complete on e-LfH. They are free and accessible to anyone who wants to complete them.HEE Care CertificateThe Care Certificate ensures healthcare support workers have the skills to provide safe, compassionate and high-quality care. The e-learning modules are free to complete. Individuals may have already completed some as part of their statutory/ mandatory training for the vaccination programme.For each standard, they must then be assessed in practice to demonstrate how they are applying their learning. To be completed by all those new to care in the first 12 weeks. NHS Leadership Academy Edward Jenner ProgrammeThe Edward Jenner programme is a free online programme that supports health and social care staff to develop essential leadership skills. The course is designed to help individuals deal with the daily challenges of working in healthcare, care for patients and provide leadership for those around them.There are approx. 40 hours of online learning which can be completed at their own pace. They then need to submit a piece of written evidence.Public Health England- All Our Health ProgrammeThe “All Our Health” e-learning programme provides support and guidance for health and care professionals on how to embed prevention within their work, helping to reduce health inequalities, premature morbidity and mortality.The e-learning sessions are free and available on e-LfH..HEE IT skills pathwayThe IT Skills Pathway provides access to quality assured, customisable learning and assessment products from basic digital skills through to more advanced Microsoft Office products.The IT skills pathway is a free resource which is delivered by Health Education England (HEE)’s partner work area (Digital Learning Solutions). All of the learning is delivered through the IT Skills Pathway network of training centres. Functional SkillsMany roles and apprenticeships require GCSE Maths and English or equivalent qualifications. For individuals who do not have these qualifications, it may be worthwhile for them to complete Functional skills courses in Literacy and Numeracy.There is also a Digital Numeracy Functional skills course which provides digital skills which are useful for Administrative roles.Free online learning tools are available on the Skills for Health website.Access to courses on e-LfHThere is a wide range of e-learning courses which are free and accessible through the e-LfH platform. Individuals can complete courses which are of particular interest to them, and which provide them with skills and knowledge in a certain field of expertise to support them in a future role in healthcare.ExperienceMany roles do not require a specific qualification, however employers may want the individual to have had some relevant experience (whether that be in a paid or voluntary capacity). If they do not have any previous experience in the healthcare sector, there are several ways they can gain some experience before applying for a role, such as through an internship or by volunteering.12345678

10. Apprenticeships overviewHere are some useful resources about apprenticeships to signpost candidates to:Health Careers – ApprenticeshipsHealth Careers - PDF overview of apprenticeships in healthApprenticeship Pathways ToolStep into the NHS - ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships in social careApprentice real life storiesThe Institute for ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships provide paid routes into a variety of NHS careers through a blended approach of classroom and on-the-job training. The individual may be interested in an apprenticeship as an opportunity to enter a new career path.NHS apprenticeships are available at four levels which each have different entry requirements:Intermediate (Level 2) apprenticeships (equivalent to 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 or A*-C)There are no set entry requirements for an intermediate apprenticeship, but employers may set their own. Completing an intermediate level apprenticeship provides the skills needed for certain roles or allows entry to an advanced level apprenticeship.Advanced (Level 3) apprenticeships (equivalent to 2 A-levels)To start an advanced level apprenticeship the individual should have 5 GCSEs (at grades 9-4 or A*-C) or have completed an intermediate level apprenticeship. Higher (Levels 4, 5, 6 and 7) apprenticeships (equivalent to a foundation degree and above)To start a higher level apprenticeship the individual should have 2 A-Levels (or equivalent) or have completed an advanced level apprenticeship. Degree (Levels 6 and 7) apprenticeships (equivalent to a full Bachelor’s or Master’s degree)To start a degree level apprenticeship the individual should have 2 A-Levels (or equivalent) or have completed an advanced level or higher level apprenticeship.*Please note to access any apprenticeship there is a requirement to hold/evidence functional skills (or equivalent) Level 2 in Maths and English. Apprenticeships are funded via the Apprenticeship Levy and no direct cost to the employee or line manager. All apprenticeships require a minimum of 20% release time for off the job learning (time that you will be outside the established numbers). Functional skills support offer. 

11. Apprenticeship Career Pathway Examples

12. Apprenticeship routes into NursingIf the individual is interested in a career in Nursing, there are three routes to consider.Nursing Degree Apprenticeship ‘Top Up’ (L6)This apprenticeship usually takes approx. 2 years to complete, you must already have a relevant Level 5 qualification (such as a Nursing Associate or Assistant Practitioner). This is generally studied in one specific field of nursing. This apprenticeship teaches the relevant knowledge and skills to become a Registered Nurse and is studied in a specific field of interest. Nursing Degree Apprenticeship (L6) 123All Nursing apprenticeships will require completion of a minimum number of hours in practice, academic assessments and demonstration of appropriate skills knowledge and attributes in practice to be able to join the register. There will be the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills gained on the apprenticeship whilst working, in addition to undertaking placement offering exposure to different areas. More information about routes into Nursing is available on the HealthCareers website andthe Nursing and Midwifery Council’s website.Nursing Associate Apprenticeships jobsNursing Associate (L5)The Nursing Associate (NA) role is a relatively new role which bridges the gap between Healthcare Support Workers and Registered Nurses. Nursing Associates work across all four fields of nursing. Nursing Associates are registered with the NMC and are able to administer medications independently via most routes. More information on how to become a Nursing Associate is available on the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s website. NHS Employers information on Nursing AssociateIf they would prefer not to study full-time, or are looking to go straight to becoming a registered nurse a Level 6 Registered Nurse degree apprenticeship is a flexible, work-based route into Nursing. This apprenticeship usually takes 4 years to complete. This is generally studied in one specific field of nursing. Apprenticeship opportunities can be found on NHS Jobs or on the UK Government website.

13. Maternity Apprenticeships12The first Midwifery Degree Apprenticeship was introduced by Greenwich University in January 2020. There are more universities now offering apprenticeships across England. Forecasting for this to be offered in East of England in 2023. Offered to Maternity Support Workers, unlike University degrees, Midwifery Apprentices do not have to pay for their studies. The NHS Trust will pay the University course fee with the Apprenticeship Levy. The course is usually undertaken over 4 years, with a blended learning approach, working a proportion of time as a Maternity Support Worker and getting paid to work whilst training.Maternity Support Worker ApprenticeshipMidwifery ApprenticeshipsUseful links:Maternity Support Worker Role, Royal College of Midwives information, National Careers Service information, Further reading: Maternity Support Worker Programme e-lfh, & Maternity Support Worker HEE project,

14. Allied Health Professional (AHP) & Healthcare Science (HCS) Apprenticeships Healthcare Science Apprenticeships (L2, L4, & L6)Healthcare Scientists have over 50 specialisms and work within the wider multidisciplinary team supporting scientific diagnostics for patients. They work in:laboratory (pathology) sciencesphysiological sciencesmedical physics and clinical engineeringBioinformaticsFurther information:Academy for Healthcare Science Healthcare Science Apprenticeships Allied Health Professional Apprenticeships (L5, 6 or 7 dependant on previous qualifications and experience)AHP’s work alongside Nursing and Medical staff treating, rehabilitating and improving the lives of patients There are 15 AHP roles, and the offering of these as apprenticeships continues to grow year on year. Apprenticeship can range from studying at a Level 5 to become an Assistant Practitioner or a BSc (Level 6)/ MSc (Level 7) in one of the 15 professions. Further information:NHS Employers informationWho are Allied Health Professionals?Health & Care Professions CouncilAHP Support Worker Competency, Education, and Career Development Framework Career progression might come as movement into a different Healthcare profession, outside of a career in Medicine or Dentistry two common paths are into an Allied Health Profession or Health Care Science.

15. Specialist rolesThere are many specialists roles that are available to HCSW’s below are a few examples. Basic English and Maths skills are required for all of these roles and employers may ask for GCSEs or equivalent qualifications.Some roles require specific previous experience, however many only require some experience in health or care (in an employed, voluntary or personal capacity).Ambulance Care Assistant / Patient Transport Service Driver​Call Handler / Emergency Medical Dispatcher​***Cardiographer​*Creative Therapy Support Roles​ Dental Support Worker​***Donor Carer​Emergency Care AssistantMaternity Support Worker​New born Hearing Screener​Orthopaedic Technician​Patient Transport Service Call Handler​***Pharmacy Assistant / Medicines Counter AssistantPhlebotomist​Support, Time and Recovery Worker Ambulance Care Assistant / Patient Transport Service Driver​* Employers may also ask for GCSE Science.** Employers may also ask for a GSCE in a Science or Engineering subject.*** Good IT skills are expected for this role.Please refer back to slides 8, 9, & 10 if you need further support with obtaining the relevant skills.Non-Clinical rolesAdministration Support Services Domestic Services Estates ServicesCorporate Services

16. ProgressionAgenda for change pay Bands are used within the NHS for classification of pay. More information can be found here. The private, voluntary and independent sector set their own rates of pay, and progression. Average salary’s can be found in this article. Level of qualificationsTypes of rolePlease note this list is not exhaustive, and they will be some slight variations from employer to employer

17. Further study (independent) Continuing study independently through accessing a programme directly via a Higher Education Institute (HEI). Dependant on circumstances and the subject chosen to study there may be tuition fees, support via a student loan or bursary. Many universities are now offering virtual or blended programmes dependant on the subject, so extensive travelling or relocation may not be necessary. Programmes often still involve a mixture of theory and practical and are assessed via various different methods. Know as Direct Entry, candidates will need to apply directly to these programmes via the University & College Admission Services (UCAS). Capacity on each programme is set by the HEI, and candidates will need to meet any entry criteria identified as part of the programme. The duration and level of study will depend on the programme applying for.

18. Application to unregistered vaccinator role Applied in January 2021 to join the recruitment pipeline in Cornwall as a Band 3 with no previous H&SC experience.Opportunities on offerConsidering the huge response to recruitment campaign, was invited to consider other health and social care roles. “This was perfect timing for me as my previous profession had been hard hit by the pandemic and I wanted a career change for stability.”Career conversations1:1 career conversation with an experienced NHS HR professional. “The individual support helped me understand the options available to me considering my level of education and interests.”Healthcare Support WorkerRecruited to a HCSW role working for a local NHS trust.“I had already completed much of the required training during my application to be a vaccinator so the process was very smooth.”Apprentice Nursing AssociateAccepted to start a 24 month programme leading to a foundation degree and the opportunity to apply for a Band 4 Nursing Associate role. “I never thought I’d be able to gain further qualifications but this programme makes it easy to balance alongside work.”Nursing Degree Apprenticeship Applying for shortened 24 month nursing degree apprenticeship is made possible using the Nursing Associate foundation degree already completed.“I’m even thinking about continuing my development moving into a speciality once I have completed my degree”Mary SmithPrevious Career: EventsPrevious Education: GCSEsCurrent Role: Nursing Associate Specialist Mary’s career pathNursing Associate Specialist RoleMary secures a role within the Clinical Education Team in her organisation, supporting, training and developing new HCSW’s..“I am so pleased to have the opportunity to teach others what I have learnt so far. ”Nursing AssociateMary secures a post as a registered nursing associate with in her organisation. Mary completes her preceptorship period.“I have learnt so much on my apprenticeship, and now feel I can put this into practice. ”

19. Joseph left School with 5 O Levels in 1974At 16 he went straight into his first jobs as a post man .Opportunities offered to Joseph whilst working for Royal Mail meant he was able to work his way up. “This was an amazing time in my life and I truly loved being a postman”Joseph retired from the post office at 55. “Its is very sad to say goodbye, however it is time for a change in my life .”Joseph volunteers at a local day centre whilst exploring his career options.Supporting venerable adults to remain independent is thoroughly rewarding.”Joseph Applies to a social care company and begins working as a carer. . “I am glad to be able to offer support to those who need it in my local community.”Joseph LewisPrevious Career: Post ManPrevious Education: O LevelsCurrent Role: Community Carer Joseph’s career pathJoseph completes the Care Certificate and relevant training for his role .“I have learnt so much on my so far, and now feel I can put this into practice. ”

20. Fatima struggled at school and left with out achieving her GCSE’s Fatima was seeking employment and secured a post as a domestic at her local hospital.Fatima enjoyed interacting with patients whilst cleaning their rooms. Fatima speaks to various staff members gaining an understanding of how they have achieved their dreams.Fatima looks for roles working in Mental Health“I really enjoy communicating with others.”Mental Health Support WorkerRecruited to role working for a local Mental Health Charity.“I am really excited about this opportunity to start working in this way.”Accelerated Care Certificate & local training to support her role. “The accelerated Care certificate was so easy to complete, I was able to do all the le-learning at my own pace from home..”Activities Co-ordinatorFatima qualifications and experience help her to secure a post as a Band 3 Activities co-Ordinator.“I love planning activities, and working with the service users to ensuring they maintain a level of ability whilst having fun” Fatima MiahPrevious Career: CleanerPrevious Education: NilCurrent Role: Activities Co-ordinator Fatima’s career pathHigher Development AwardFatima's employer and local college supports her to achieve the higher Development Award Level 3..“I have learnt so much about myself, and how I work with others as part of the team”Functional SkillsFatima's seeks support from her employer and a local college to complete her Functional Skills Level 1 & 2 in English & Maths.“Completing these essential qualifications will enable me to access further development in the future should I wish to do so. ”

21. Ishmael came to the UK at 40 on spousal visa following his wife who is a registered Nurse Ishmael had worked for many years as an account manager at a large organisation.Ismael is keen to work, and starts undertaking manual labour with a local painter and decorator. Ishmael is wanted to work with people, and be part of a wider team He is successful in gaining employment as Band 2 HCSW on an acute stroke ward. “The work is hard, and the patients can be very dependant on us. However It is amazing to see them go home..”Care Certificate and local trainingIshmael gains some specialist skills around stroke care.“I really enjoy being able to support the wider team when reenabling patients .”Ishmael shadows the Physiotherapist on his ward“I never thought I’d be able to learn so much by following someone. It was amazing to see how they assess and support patients.”Assistant PractitionerIshmael has now completed the apprenticeship and has a post working as an Assistant Practitioner with in the PT team.“I’m even thinking about continuing my development towards becoming a Physiotherapist - an amazing opportunity!”Ishmael BhunaPrevious Career: Account ManagerPrevious Education: BScCurrent Role: Physiotherapy Support WorkerIshmael’s career pathAssistant Practitioner Apprenticeship Ishmael commences a Level 5 Apprenticeship for 24 months to become an assistant Practitioner “I am so pleased to have the opportunity to develop putting into place what I have learnt so far. ”Band 3 Physiotherapy Support Worker Ishmael starts to work with the PT team support the reablement of patients“This role is truly amazing and I am able to support patients seeing their progression . ”

22. Name: Previous Career: Previous Education: Current Role: Career path template”

23. Health Care Support Worker Role   

24. Further Reading Useful links:11 Reasons Why You Love The NHS  NHS Jobs - Working in the NHS Learning & development roadmap6 C’s Maternity Support WorkerHEE information – MSWMSW_FrameworkMSW videoNHS – HCSW informationNHS Careers – HCSWApplication e-learningHEE Health & Social Care Academy's How can I develop my career in social care?Social care and support guide