Community / New course aims to support people into social care work
UHI SHETLAND and Shetland Islands Council have teamed up to launch a ten week, fully-funded ‘health and social care skills academy’.
The course is designed to support people into work in social care in Shetland, and anyone completing it will be eligible for a “guaranteed interview” with the council for relief social care posts.
It comes amid a relatively high level of vacancies in social care in Shetland in recent times, which has led to the council drafting in temporary agency staff.
In the first half of the course students will learn a wide range of skills from an industry-experienced team on campus, and in the second half of the course, work experience will develop real-life training and skills.
The course has been designed with accessibility in mind, for those looking to return to employment and for those with caring responsibilities.
UHI Shetland’s head of health, care and society Susan Menary said: “This course is an excellent pathway for anyone over 16 who is interested in working in health and social care. It combines knowledge and practical skills with hands-on work experience.
“Successful completion of the course leads to a guaranteed interview for relief social care posts, so it really is a great route to employment.
“The timing of the course fits in perfectly with school/nursery, so it’s ideal for parents/carers as well.”
Robbie Simpson, team leader at the council-run Newcraigielea Services, said: “This course offers an excellent chance for students to gain practical skills and knowledge of health and social care as a possible career path.
“Staff in our care settings across Shetland are really keen to support care skills academy students in our workplaces.
“We hope that this course of study, combined with practical care experience, will help students find rewarding future employment in the local care sector.”
Prospective students can apply by visiting the UHI Shetland website, or to find out more by calling 01595 771000.
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