Spotlight - Issue 1

Introduction

Welcome to the inaugural edition of Adult Care Spotlight. We are thrilled to launch our newsletter, which explores the dynamic and evolving landscape of Adult Care apprenticeships. As advocates for professional development and excellence in caregiving, we are committed to providing invaluable insights, resources, and stories from the frontlines of Adult Care apprenticeships.

Skilled Caregivers

In an era where the demand for skilled caregivers is at an all-time high, the importance of robust apprenticeship qualifications cannot be overstated.

As our population ages, the need for compassionate, well-trained individuals to support and empower older adults grows exponentially. Adult Care apprenticeships offer a pathway for individuals to enter this rewarding field, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.

Throughout this newsletter, we will delve into various aspects of Adult Care apprenticeships, from the fundamentals of caregiving to the latest trends and innovations shaping the industry. Whether you are a current apprentice, a seasoned caregiver, an employer or someone considering a career in Adult Care, our goal is to provide valuable insights and resources to support your journey.

The team at Aspiration Training invite you to join us in celebrating the vital role of caregivers in our society and championing the importance of quality training and professional development in the Adult Care sector.

Together, we can ensure that every individual receives the compassionate, high-quality care they deserve.

We look forward to sharing insights, inspiration, and resources with you in the following articles.

News

New reform package to boost apprenticeships

The Prime Minister has unveiled a comprehensive package of reforms to bolster apprenticeships, particularly within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These reforms alleviate financial burdens on businesses but also pave the way for a surge in apprenticeship opportunities, empowering young individuals to embark on fulfilling career paths.

Since 1st April, the government covered the entire cost of apprenticeship training for individuals up to the age of 21 in small businesses. This initiative not only eases the financial strain on small employers but also streamlines the process by eliminating the need for them to contribute to training costs. This measure simplifies funding procedures for educational institutions, such as further education colleges, ensuring a smoother pathway for apprenticeship provision.

Backed by an additional ￡60 million in government funding, these reforms guarantee sufficient financial support to meet the growing demand for apprenticeships from businesses. Moreover, large employers subject to the apprenticeship levy will now have the flexibility to transfer up to 50% of their funds to support other companies, including SMEs.

This move allows enterprise cost-sharing and broadens access to skilled workers across various sectors. Hundreds of large levy-paying employers, including prominent names like ASDA, HomeServe, and BT Group, have pledged substantial amounts to support apprenticeships in businesses of all sizes. Since September 2021, over ￡35.39 million has been committed, signalling a tangible commitment to nurturing talent and fostering economic growth.

These reforms are projected to create up to 20,000 additional apprenticeship opportunities, primarily benefiting young people. This strategic investment aligns with the government's overarching vision of cultivating a robust economy where merit is duly rewarded and the youth are equipped with the requisite skills to thrive.

Building on a decade-long track record of apprenticeship transformation, the government has facilitated the commencement of 5.7 million apprenticeships since 2010. By collaborating with employers to develop nearly 700 high-quality standards and increasing funding to over ￡2.7 billion, significant strides have been made in expanding apprenticeship pathways.

The announced reforms epitomise a concerted effort to revitalise apprenticeships, invigorate businesses, and empower the youth. As consultations continue to refine these initiatives, the trajectory is set for a future where opportunities abound, businesses thrive, and the workforce is equipped for success in the ever-evolving landscape of the modern economy.

For more information about the New Reform Package please speak to one of our experts on how it can help your business.

A comprehensive learning framework for affirmative care with LGBTQ+ elders

In social care, inclusivity and support for LGBTQ+ individuals in later life are essential. Dr. Trish Hafford-Letchfield, in collaboration with the LGBT Foundation and funded by Skills for Care, has developed a learning framework to guide the social care workforce.

This framework enhances understanding and skills for engaging with gender and sexually diverse communities. It serves various stakeholders, including employers, employees, training providers, regulators, commissioners, and policymakers. The framework aims to integrate LGBTQ+ issues into workforce education, daily care practices, and evidence-based training initiatives. It also conducts training needs analyses, designs high-standard programs, and incorporates LGBTQ+ topics into recruitment and career progression.

By adopting these principles, social care organisations can create inclusive and affirming environments for LGBTQ+ individuals in their later years, ensuring they receive the respect and support they deserve. For more information, ask us to be able to view a presentation on the LGBTQ+ learning framework by Skills for Care.

Care Quality Commission New Framework

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has introduced a new framework for registering activities, emphasising its significance in recognising and supporting services that deliver excellent care while mitigating poor care instances. This framework marks a shift in assessing service quality, aligning with 34 quality statements to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. New providers seeking registration will undergo assessment through questions tailored to this framework, facilitating the process via the new portal or web form, streamlining the registration procedures.

Additionally, CQC has also unveiled enhanced digital services to simplify information sharing and ensure factual accuracy before publication. Providers benefit from more apparent online forms for inquiries and submissions, including mental health complaints and registration cancellations. The introduction of a new provider portal enables streamlined notifications and registration activities. As the transition progresses, CQC will discontinue the existing portal, urging providers to join the new platform, with a phased rollout strategy ensuring a smooth transition for all stakeholders.