The scheme has been announced after it was revealed more than a third of new starters leave their role within the first year.
Richmond, a Cheshire-based training provider, and London South Bank University have teamed up to deliver a new programme that aims to tackle recruitment and retention issues within the health and social care sector.
Currently, research from Skills for Care shows more than a third of new starters in the adult social care sector leave their roles within a year.
The scheme, which will be offered to apprentices looking to obtain senior management roles and nursing qualifications, is fully funded by the Government’s Growth and Skills Levy – an initiative that was first unveiled in September 2024 and aims to bolster opportunities for young people.
To give context, it is estimated around 250 people will benefit from the programme within the first three years, with experts theorising as many as 1,500 learners could benefit in the long haul.
Gill Waddicor, managing director of Richmond, said the new project is ‘an important step for us in addressing urgent front-line challenges in adult social care.’
‘The programme delivers huge benefits to learners and their employers,’ she continued. ‘Any apprentice who progresses with us will be paid while learning and gain a fully funded degree. This enables them to start their career without facing a big debt burden.
‘With staff vacancies in adult social care estimated at 165,000 – a vacancy rate of 10.6% – we feel this programme is timely for employers too.
‘We’re excited by the prospect of delivering a fully funded new route to careers, not just training for jobs.’
On the topic of money, organisations using the programme for apprentices under the age of 25 will be exempt from paying employer National Insurance – a fee that is set to increase from April – saving around £3,000 a year.
Sammy Shummo, group director of apprenticeships from London South Bank University, added: ‘This initiative comes at an important time for employers working in health and social care.
‘We know the sector face challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled employees. Our programme aims to play a crucial role in addressing these challenges head on.
‘By creating a clear and structured pathway for apprentices, we aim to support their professional growth and improve the quality of care provided to the community.’
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