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Three Acorn Houses Respite employees are developing their skills through the Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care
Acorn Houses Respite is investing in the development of its workforce, with three members of staff currently completing the Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care with Realise.
The nine-month programme is being delivered through the Adult Skills Fund, which means eligible care professionals in West Yorkshire. The Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care is a nationally recognised qualification, quality assured and approved by Skills for Care. It helps experienced care professionals strengthen their knowledge, develop their practice and prepare to take on greater responsibility.
For Helen Simpson, Owner and Manager of Acorn Houses Respite, investing in her team is an important part of providing the best possible support for the organisation’s vulnerable guests.
“For me personally, I’m always looking for ways to improve the support we provide to our vulnerable guests, and that includes upskilling the support workers who care for them every day,” said Helen.
“Acorn Houses is also extremely keen to support and care for our staff team by giving them opportunities to succeed and develop in their own lives.”
Choosing the right training provider
When searching for a training provider, Helen wanted to find an organisation that was trustworthy, reliable and able to provide the right level of support for her team.
She chose Realise after being impressed by the help and guidance provided from the first enquiry.
“The help and information we received while searching for a trustworthy and reliable training provider was brilliant,” Helen explained.
“From our first enquiry right up to now, Realise has helped and accommodated us so much.”
Growing confidence and independence
Learning is closely connected to each employee’s day-to-day role, allowing them to put their new knowledge into practice as they progress through the course.
Helen has already seen a noticeable difference in the three learners and the way they approach their responsibilities at work.
“I have seen our learners grow and embed a deeper understanding into the work they do as they progress through the course,” she said.
“The team has become more independent and staff are handling daily tasks with less support from management as their confidence has grown.”
Supporting staff to reach their potential
Throughout the diploma, the learners receive regular one-to-one guidance, teaching and feedback from their trainer, Craig.
Craig said:
“Acorn Houses has created a really positive environment for its learners. Helen is committed to developing her staff and makes sure they have the encouragement and opportunities needed to apply their learning at work. It has been fantastic to see the learners grow in confidence, become more independent and recognise their own potential as care professionals.”
The programme is helping the learners build the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to deliver safe, effective and person-centred care. It is also supporting them to develop leadership skills and prepare for potential progression into roles such as Senior Care Worker, Team Leader or Deputy Manager.
When asked what advice she would give to other care employers considering training with Realise, Helen’s response was simple:
“Go for it, especially with Realise and Craig!”
