Care SWAP Project Empowers Learners for Careers in Health and Social Care
Twelve enthusiastic learners from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have successfully completed a two-week Introduction to Health and Social Care programme, delivered by On Course South West (OCSW) in collaboration with Millfield’s Inspired and Skills Launchpad Plymouth (SLP). The innovative Care SWAP project has provided participants with essential training, qualifications and direct access to potential employers in the health and social care sector.
Over the course of the programme, learners engaged in:
Specific sector training tailored to health and social care.
A work experience intergenerational event at Millfield’s, designed to foster meaningful connections between generations.
A session with Kim Vickers from Next Generation offering valuable industry insights.
Participants also achieved three key qualifications:
Employability Skills
Health and Safety
First Aid
The programme culminated with an employer engagement event, where learners met representatives from leading organisations offering job opportunities in adult social care, childcare, youth work, and fostering. Employers included Visiting Angels care agency, Marama care, Nurse Plus care agency, Next Generation care agency, Brandon Trust support work and Downham House children’s residential home.
Natalie Jary and Jack Davies from SLP provided additional guidance on roles within Livewell Southwest and the NHS, ensuring learners gained a comprehensive understanding of the diverse opportunities available in the sector.
Keely Burch Havers from Millfield’s Inspired played a pivotal role in coordinating the intergenerational event, while OCSW staff members Emily Davies, Trudie Connolly, Trixy Roberts, and Lisa Grant delivered expert training throughout the programme. Claire Schofield and Charmaine from DWP also offered invaluable support to the initiative.
The Care SWAP project highlights the power of partnership working to address skills gaps in health and social care while empowering individuals to embark on rewarding careers. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in creating a pathway for learners to secure meaningful employment and make a positive impact on their communities.
Matt Turner said “I joined the course as I had already done some child support work in the past and wanted to get back into social care work. Having been adopted myself, I have always wanted to be able to give back and feel I could relate to people who are going through similar situations given my history. The course has been brilliant and our course leader has been really good and engaging. I am pleased to say that after going through the interview process today I have been offered a role with the Brandon Trust”.
