Healthcare recruitment programme wins award

A Walsall partnership that helps residents to move into healthcare careers has won an award in recognition of its success.

The Work4Health Programme delivered by Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, whg, Walsall College and the DWP was named Successful Partnership Award winner at the West Midlands Adult Learning Awards.

Judges recognised how the award benefits the local community by supporting individuals into work and tackling skills shortages in this sector.

Marsha Belle Associate Director of People, Organisational Development and Culture at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “Winning the award is such great recognition for collaborative working and shows what can be achieved when cross-functional partners work together.

“At Walsall Healthcare we have gained fantastic employees who may not have had the opportunity to work with us if not for this programme and the support of our partners.

“Together we have worked to provide real and lasting jobs with career routes and ongoing development and education for Walsall residents. I look forward to continuing our work and strengthening our partnerships.”

The three-week Work4Health Sector-Based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) gives jobseekers an understanding of working in the NHS and care sector and helps support their job applications for a clinical support worker role.

The partnership which began in 2021 has seen more than 160 people secure jobs.

Fay Shanahan, Corporate Director of Operations and IT at whg, added: “At whg, we believe that sustaining tenancies is not just about providing a roof over someone’s head. It’s about creating a supportive environment where our customers can thrive.

“By supporting them into work, we’re not only sustaining tenancies but also improving lives and building more resilient communities. We are delighted to see the impact this project is making to the lives of local people.”

James Norris, Assistant Principal for Commercial Development at Walsall College added: “This award serves as proof of the Work4Health programme’s effectiveness as a collaborative programme that raises awareness of imminent vacancies, while providing industry-led training and customised support to help people into meaningful employment.

“The programme’s impact has been far-reaching in terms of raising aspirations and contributing to the wellbeing and prosperity of local people.

“The college is proud to have played our part while working with dedicated and committed partners who want the best for our communities.”

The Adult Learning Awards shine a light on learners, tutors, employers and providers drawing on funding from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). A total of 13 winners and five highly commended learning journeys were showcased at the ceremony through a series of short films.

Since the region’s Adult Education Budget was devolved to the WMCA in 2019, more than £700m of public funding has been targeted on jobs and skills training, helping to attract additional private sector investment.

Helene Dearn, the WMCA’s Interim Director of Employment, Skills, Health and Communities, said: “The West Midlands is filled with talented people whose enormous potential is being recognised throughout our employment and skills strategy.

“The WMCA has a bold ambition and clear plans to build a more prosperous and better-connected West Midlands that provides opportunities for us all to thrive. Learning and skills are at the heart of our plans and these awards showcase the incredible work already changing people’s lives.

“This year we are especially proud to showcase the role played by employers and supporting organisations to help residents improve their employment prospects, whether through apprenticeships, skills bootcamps, or other innovative programmes.

“Congratulations to every single nominee and especially our winners and thank you for sharing your experiences with others looking to make a change.”