Health and care support worker development programme

Background

NES was commissioned by the Scottish Government to undertake a review of career pathways for Health Care Support workers (HCSW) working at levels 2-4 of the NHS Career Framework for Health in health and social care within NHS Scotland. The aim of the commission was to scope and recommend a nationally agreed framework to support definition of Healthcare Support Worker (HCSW) roles, career progression and development through education and training, with a focus on how HCSWs support registered staff.

The commission will be developed in 3 phases:

Phase one: HCSW bands 3-4 practising within acute and community nursing teams. This phase was completed on schedule and a report submitted to Scottish Government which can be accessed under supporting documents . The report includes a number of recommendations which are now being considered in phase 2.
Phase two: HCSW band 2 nursing, band 2-4 nursing, midwifery and allied health professions (NMAHPs) and band 4 Ambulance Technician
Phase three – HCSW bands 2 – 4 for Healthcare Science

FAQs

Since the Scottish Government commissioned NHS Education for Scotland to take forward work on education and development of Level 2-4 Healthcare Support Workers, several questions have arisen from stakeholders. This set of frequently asked questions and answers is designed to address some of the common enquiries.

Frequently asked questions (PDF)