West Lothian College, in partnership with NHS Lothian, has launched a Skills Boost for Healthcare course, designed to provide education and employment opportunities for individuals in West Lothian and beyond.
This initiative aims to create a pathway into healthcare careers, offering candidates the chance to secure a provisional job offer as a Trainee Band 3 Healthcare Support Worker with NHS Lothian.
This fully funded course is open to individuals aged 16 and over, and candidates must successfully pass an interview process to be offered a place on the course and a provisional job offer with NHS Lothian.
Rachel McFadden, Learning and Skills Manager at West Lothian College, said: “We are delighted to partner with NHS Lothian to offer this Skills Boost for Healthcare course. This initiative not only provides essential training but also opens doors to meaningful employment opportunities in the healthcare sector.
“Our goal is to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed and make a positive impact in their communities. This collaboration is a fantastic opportunity to nurture local talent and address the growing demand for healthcare professionals. By providing comprehensive training and a clear pathway to employment, we are investing in the future of healthcare in our region."
The course is made up of a three-week block, with learning supported by West Lothian College for two weeks, and a one-week of learning supported by NHS Lothian, at St John’s Hospital, in Livingston, or the Comely Bank Centre, in Edinburgh.
On successful completion of their learning and completion of all required documentation then students will commence employment and complete NHS Corporate Induction.
At college, students will develop their understanding of professionalism, reflection, and healthcare legislation, along with infection control, health and safety, personal care, dementia awareness, First Aid, and career pathways in healthcare.
The NHS Lothian training includes basic life support, equality, diversity, and rights, fire safety awareness, healthcare associated infections (HAI), health and safety, information governance, management of aggression, public protection, and manual handling- equipping students with essential skills for a healthcare career.
Janet McLean from NHS Lothian added: “The skills boost course is a great way to undergo an introduction to the role of the health care support worker and a career working in the NHS. HCSWs work alongside a multi-disciplinary team and provide a vital role in supporting high-quality person-centred care.”
Applicants should be aware that they are applying for a position with NHS Lothian and should prepare accordingly for a job interview.
As part of the application process- candidates must complete an application form detailing their motivation for applying for the course.
Successful applicants will also be required to pass all pre-employment checks, including a PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) membership with Disclosure Scotland and an Occupational Health report before starting their role.
To apply or to find out more information about the course, and the role, visit here.