Publish date: 9 December 2024
Healthcare trust recognised for commitment to workforce development
Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has achieved silver membership in The 5% Club.
This is a significant milestone, highlighting the trust’s commitment to workforce development. This achievement aligns with Northumbria Healthcare's Our Community Promise and its dedication to widening participation, emphasising the effort to create opportunities within the organisation.
The 5% Club is a group of employers dedicated to ensuring that at least 5% of their workforce is enrolled in “earn and learn” positions. This includes apprenticeships, graduate schemes, and sponsored student programmes. The purpose of this is to not only foster skill development and career progression but also support the trust's goal of widening participation and improving employability in the region.
Northumbria Healthcare is the first NHS trust in the North of England to achieve this membership, joining Barking, Havering & Redbridge University NHS Trust as joint-first in the country. This recognition underscores Northumbria Healthcare's commitment to staff, reflecting its proactive approach to workforce development and commitment to the local community.
Ruth Auton, head of education, learning & organisational development at Northumbria Healthcare, said: "Achieving silver membership of The 5% Club is a testament to our commitment to workforce development and creating opportunities for all. It reflects our dedication to building a skilled workforce that can deliver exceptional care to our patients. By investing in apprenticeships and other 'earn and learn' programs, we are not only enhancing the skill sets of our employees but also ensuring that our workforce is equipped to meet the challenges of the future.
“This achievement demonstrates our commitment to continuous professional development, which is essential to maintaining high standards of healthcare.”
Wayne Daley, head of corporate social responsibility, said: “We are proud that Northumbria Healthcare are leading the way in providing valuable opportunities that not only benefit our teams, but also our patients. Our involvement in The 5% Club is part of a broader strategy to create an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone has the chance to succeed and grow. This is supported by Our Community Promise.
“By focusing on apprenticeships and development programmes providing real opportunities within our communities, we are laying the groundwork for a more resilient and capable healthcare system in the future.”