The sector skills council for the public, private and voluntary healthcare sectors, Skills for Health , has signed a new multi-million pound Joint Investment Framework involving Strategic Health Authorities and the Learning and Skills Council.
 
Over time, the deal will see up to £100m of additional funds being delivered annually into the health service in England to tackle skills gaps and shortages.  By developing the potential of healthcare staff the aim is to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and the highest levels of service.

The Joint Investment Framework is a rolling three-year agreement between the Strategic Health Authorities, the Learning and Skills Council, and Skills for Health.  Funding will focus on healthcare staff working in Bands 1 to 4; funding Apprenticeships, Skills for Life, and other skills development and qualifications at Levels 2, 3 and 4.

Part of the Sector Skills Agreement for Health, the Framework represents a major step towards achieving the demand-led skills system recommended in the December 2006 Leitch review of skills.

John Rogers, Chief Executive of Skills for Health said:

"Our vision is to improve healthcare services by ensuring that the sector has a skilled and flexible workforce.  The Sector Skills Agreement for Health is our mechanism for achieving this. To date we have already gained the support of more than 70 partners across the UK who are working with us to help accomplish this objective.  The new Joint Investment Framework is an important example of the Sector Skills Agreement in action."

Mark Haysom, Chief Executive of the Learning and Skills Council:

"Improving skills and reducing skills gaps and shortages is vital if we are to build first-class public services in this country. That is why this agreement is so important. It represents a very significant move to ensure that the healthcare sector and its workforce are equipped with the best vocational skills that are available.  We at the LSC are delighted to be involved in this agreement and the partnership that has brought it to fruition."

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