NHSGGC is the largest health board in the UK. We provide healthcare to over 1.2 million people and employ around 38,000 staff, many of which are Allied Health Professionals (AHP’s).
NHSGGC AHP staff have a positive and integral role to play in the delivery of healthcare. NHSGGC are committed to nurturing the future generation of AHP’s through AHP student practice placements. Working in tandem with Higher Education (HE) and HEIs we support and facilitate pre-registration practice based learning and development.
NHSGGC offers client facilities and services in both acute and community settings, over a vast geographical area from Greenock to Glasgow and many places in between. If you are coming to NHSGGC for a placement you may be placed in one or many of the settings where we provide health care to service users.
You might feel a mixture of emotions about coming on placement, this is ok and perfectly normal.
You will find in the sections below, relevant and necessary pre-placement information including confidentiality to uniform policies, what to expect from the placement and what we expect from you. This, in turn can help to empower and create optimistic emotions which can positively impact on confidence and learning throughout your placement.
Profession specific information will be available soon.
Student Wellbeing
At this time, each Scottish HEI is providing a range of wellbeing support to which you can self-refer.
A Support for AHP Students poster has been created, detailing local resources which may support AHP students during the cost of living crisis.
Resources
AHP student and practice educator handbook
Provides a variety of resources and information for students and practice educators, including:
student use of electronic information systems.
code of conduct
policies
student car insurance
student feedback
students raising a concern
membership of PVG Scheme
fire safety for students
Templates for recording student information and reflection.
The handbook is updated quarterly to ensure it reflects current AHP information and resources. However, if you feel information needs to be updated or added, please contact, elspeth.lee4@nhs.scot.
AHP Student Feedback Questionnaire
To allow AHPs to improve and understand the student experience it is important for us to find out what went well and where we could improve the placement experience. It is also very valuable to share the different challenges that were experienced and how these were perhaps overcome. Although voluntary to complete, we would greatly appreciate your participation with the AHP Student Feedback Questionnaire. Your responses to questions are anonymous, unless you choose to add the placement area details.
The data from the survey will initially be shared with the AHP professional leads for dissemination through their service.
The link to the survey should be provided by your Practice educator who is working directly with you on placement within NHSGGC,
Since 2010, there have been AHP Practice Placement Agreements in place between each Scottish HEI that runs pre-registration programmes and each NHS Board. Previously known as Practice Placement Agreements (PPA). The AHP PPA’s are currently being refreshed (now to be called AHP Practice-based Learning Agreement ).
NHSGGC have AHP Practice-based Learning Agreements with Glasgow Caledonian University, Queen Margaret University, Robert Gordon University, University of Strathclyde and Edinburgh Napier University
What is new in the AHP Practice-based learning Agreement?
The revised agreement provides greater clarity and consistency in approach to governance arrangements for professions, Universities and Practice Education Providers. It consolidates current custom and practice that has evolved in relation to student Practice-based Learning since 2009.
The approach to refreshing the agreement has been to include agreed content written during the original signing, and subsequent developments that underpin the provision of AHP student Practice-based Learning e.g. HCPC Guidance on Conduct and Ethics for Students (2017), AHP placement cancellation guidance, provision of practice educator training etc. The refreshed content has an operational focus to address and balance the requirements of different stakeholders.
What has not changed?
The agreements clarify contemporary governance arrangements for Student Practice-based learning. The approach to refreshing the agreements has not included a review of the ongoing commitment to student ‘Practice Based Learning Weeks’ (placement weeks) per profession. This work is being progressed separately and will involve Scottish Government, AHP Directors, Practice Education Providers and professional bodies.
AHP Students from non-Scottish HEI’s
AHP students who are studying at non-Scottish HEI’s often have placements within NHSGGC, however as there are no practice-based learning agreements with these institutions, governance arrangements regarding issues such as PVG, immunisations etc must be discussed with the HEI and student prior to the student coming on placement.
HCPC regulatory body
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is the regulating body for health, psychological and social work professionals. They protect and set standards around education and training which includes continuing professional development (CPD).
NHS Education for Scotland (NES) funded AHP practice education programme to support high quality placement opportunities. The site offers support on pre placement orientation and induction material, Practice Educator CPD and support and an overview of AHP Practice based learning partnership agreements.
NHSGGC is proud to provide a large numbers of practice-based learning experiences for Allied Health Professions (AHP) students, contributing to the future AHP workforce. This could not be done without the commitment and enthusiasm from the AHP Practice Educators to provide quality practice-based learning. AHP Practice Educators play an essential role in the development of new AHPs. Working with the higher and further education institution they support students with the development of their knowledge and skills. To ensure AHP Practice Educators are supported in their role there is both national and local work ongoing. This website will be one of the ways to provide AHP Practice Educators with information and resources. The information and resources on this page come from a range of sources- NHSGGC AHP Practice Educators, Higher and Further Education Institutions, NHS Education Scotland(NES) AHP Practice Education and the NHS GGC AHP Practice-based learning Quality Group
The AHP Practice Placement Quality Group members and the AHP practice education team are working hard to support AHP Practice-based Learning. NHSGGC AHP Practice-based Learning Newsletter (June 2024) has been developed by a sub group of the NHSGGC AHP Practice Placement Quality group in order to celebrate successes, highlight key resources and provide updates around practice-based learning. Previous editions of the newsletter can be accessed below.
The AHP Practice Education Team have recently run AHP Peer Assisted Learning and Digital Workshops to support AHPs who are considering peer assisted learning and digital placements. We hope to run further workshops in the future. To register interest please email please email ggc.gjnh@nhs.scot
The Practice Educators website is spilt into different pages. To access each page please click on the relevant section.
AHP Practice-based Learning National Resources
The AHP Practice-Based Learning (PrBL) national site is funded by the AHP Practice Education Programme. It contains resources to support PrBL. This includes links to the ‘How to’ workshops, information on models of placement delivery, digital knowledge and skills and practice educator preparation.
Additionally the site provides an explanation of the national groups supporting AHP PrBL and Scotland wide initiatives to support PrBL.
Scottish HEIs provide a range of wellbeing support to which students can self-refer. Students can also access NES wellbeing resources. Practice Educators can also signpost students to both wellbeing resources within the HEIs.
A Support for AHP Students poster has been created, detailing local resources which may support AHP students during the cost of living crisis.
It provides information for students and practice educators on:
student use of electronic information systems.
code of conduct
policies
student car insurance
student feedback
students raising a concern
students accessing electronic information systems
membership of PVG Scheme
fire safety for students
Templates for recording student information and reflection.
It is updated bi-annually to ensure it reflects current AHP information and resources.
If you feel information requires updated or could be added to please contact elspeth.lee4@nhs.scot
AHP Student Feedback Questionnaire
The recovery of AHP practice placements within NHSGGC has recommenced following the pause of placements due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In many cases NHSGGC AHPs are providing placements differently or with some changes due to COVID-19 therefore we greatly value feedback from AHP students. This feedback allows AHPs to improve and understand the student experience by asking what went well, where we could improve the placement experience, what challenges were experienced and how these were perhaps overcome. Feedback is obtained by way of a questionnaire, although participation is voluntary, the information gathered is very valuable in informing future placements. This questionnaire is anonymous unless you choose to add the placement area details.
The data from the questionnaire will initially be shared with the AHP professional leads for dissemination through their service.
The link to the AHP Student Feedback questionnaire should be provided to each AHP student by the Practice educator who is working directly with the student on placement within NHSGGC.
The link can be provided:
within an email
on student induction paperwork
in student information folders
in written form as a URL
Guidance on cancellation of AHP practice placements
Cancellation guidance is to be used when cancelling a practice placement within the health board to ensure other options have been considered. The cancellation guidance is supported within the health board by the AHP Practice Placement Quality group.
AHP practice based learning agreements
Since 2010, there have been AHP Practice Placement Agreements in place between each Scottish HEI that runs pre-registration programmes and each NHS Board. Previously known as Practice Placement Agreements (PPA). The AHP PPA’s are currently being refreshed (now to be called AHP Practice-based Learning Agreement ).
NHSGGC have AHP Practice-based Learning Agreements with Glasgow Caledonian University, Queen Margaret University, Robert Gordon University, University of Strathclyde and Edinburgh Napier University.
What is new in the AHP Practice-based learning Agreement?
The revised agreement provides greater clarity and consistency in approach to governance arrangements for professions, universities and Practice Education Providers. It consolidates current custom and practice that has evolved in relation to student Practice-based Learning since 2009.
The approach to refreshing the agreement has been to include agreed content written during the original signing, and subsequent developments that underpin the provision of AHP student Practice-based Learning e.g. HCPC Guidance on Conduct and Ethics for Students (2017), AHP placement cancellation guidance, provision of practice educator training etc. The refreshed content has an operational focus to address and balance the requirements of different stakeholders.
What has not changed?
The agreements clarify contemporary governance arrangements for Student Practice-based learning. The approach to refreshing the agreements has not included a review of the ongoing commitment to student ‘PrBL Weeks’ (placement weeks) per profession. This work is being progressed separately and will involve Scottish Government, AHP Directors, Practice Education Providers, professional bodies.
AHP Students from non -Scottish HEI’s
AHP students who are studying at non-Scottish HEI’s often have placements within NHSGGC however as there are no practice-based learning agreements with these institutions, governance arrangements regarding issues such as PVG, immunisations etc must be discussed with the HEI and student prior to the student coming on placement.
AHP Practice-based Learning Quality Group
The AHP practice placement quality group provides an inter-professional health board wide approach to improving the quality of AHP student education and increasing the capacity to provide learning opportunities for preregistration students.
The group will support a positive learning environment through enhancing the student experience informed by AHPs within the board, NHS Scotland, Quality Standards for Practice Placement (QSPP) and student evaluation.
The AHP practice placement quality group will enable communication, information sharing and facilitate collaborative engagement between the board and higher/further education institutions about AHP student education.
It guides both current and future projects and allows sharing of good practice across professions.
Membership of Group
The grouphas representatives from AHP professions within NHSGGC.
AHP practice educator preparation is provided by all five of the Scottish higher education institutions (HEIs) who provide pre registration AHP courses: Glasgow Caledonian University and Strathclyde (jointly), Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh Napier university and Robert Gordon University. The NHSGGC Practice Placement Quality Group have agreed that AHPs should refresh their practice educator training every five years.
If an AHP attends a course from one of the HEI’s, this provides them with the information and knowledge to supervise students from all HEI’s i.e. an AHP does not need to attend all four HEI’s practice educator training courses to supervise students from the other HEIs. However AHPs need to ensure they are familiar with the paperwork and requirements for each course.
The SWAY will be added to as further resources for practice educator preparation become available and can be accessed via the same link.
AHP Practice Education survey results
Thank you to those of you who took the time to complete the National AHP Practice Education Survey 2022, it is much appreciated and helps to support and guide future development of student practice education in Scotland.
The Quality Improvement Network for AHPs in NHSGGC (AHPQIN) had over 500 members.
At the start of 2024 we decided to scale up and spread to transition to a GGC-wide network for all members of staff from all areas and professions. This process is still taking place and will shape what the network looks like in future and what it offers.
AHPs retain a specific channel within the network on MS teams to ensure we can still share information specific to AHPs.
If you would like to join the network simply click on the link below and ask to join the team.
Here are some projects completed by AHPs during the NHSGGC AHP Quality Improvement Program as well as other sources.
Hopefully they may inspire you to carry out your own QI project.
If you have already carried out a QI project and would like to share this please use one of the templates below and send this to nikki.munro@ggc.scot.nhs.uk to be uploaded to this site.
Below are some presentations from the 2021 cohort of the AHP Quality Improvement Program to help you choose the best way to share your Improvement Journey with Others.
NHS Education for Scotland (NES) offers many courses or Learning Programmes in Quality Improvement with varied target audiences. For the most up to date information please visit the NES program page at:
These resources can be used by staff working across the public sector in Scotland. Each module’s page includes a short description of what you can expect to find in it, who should do it and how long it will take to complete it. Most of them will take around 30 minutes to complete.
The modules available are:
Measurement for improvement
Understanding your system
Developing your aims and change ideas
Testing your change ideas
Implementation and Spread
Introduction to demand, capacity, activity and queue
Introduction to Value Management
2. Scottish Improvement Foundation Skills (SIFS) Programme
This programme is aimed at all people working in the public sector across Scotland who have ideas that can improve the way things are done in their own workplace. Staff working at foundation level will be functioning as part of a team to improve service delivery in their own workplace. Foundation learning resources introduce staff to widely used improvement methods to help support them achieve the outcome they are aiming for.
The aim of SIFS is to support individuals to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence to participate as members of improvement teams and contribute to testing, measuring and reporting on changes made.
NHSGGC Clinical Effectiveness Department run regular Scottish Improvement Foundation Skills Courses (SIFS) open to all members of staff in NHSGGC.
If you would like to register your interest for a future SIFS course, please register your interest below:
3. For Managers Coaching and Leading Teams to Improve their Services
SCLIP is a 3-month Quality Improvement learning programme. The target audience for the programme is core managers who are responsible for coaching and leading their teams to improve their services and helping embed improvement strategies within their organisation. Participants will be recruited and selected by the local organisation. It is recommended that applicants fit the following criteria:
responsibility for managing a team or teams
motivation to improve their skills in leading and coaching teams to deliver improvement
a strong desire to improve outcomes for people
4. For Individuals who need in-depth QI knowledge to support others across their organisation
The Scottish Improvement Leader (ScIL) Programme
The aim of the ScIL Programme is to enable individuals to:
design, develop and lead improvement projects,
lead and generate support for change, and
provide expert QI support and advice in their organisations.
It is aimed at people working in the Scottish Public Service in a role with a significant focus on quality improvement and dedicated time allocated to lead improvement projects.
5.The Scottish Quality and Safety (SQS) Fellowship Programme
The Scottish Quality and Safety Fellowship Programme (SQS Fellowship) is a lead level quality improvement and clinical leadership course managed by NHS Education for Scotland (NES), working in partnership with Healthcare Improvement Scotland and NHSScotland.
The Fellowship is open to healthcare staff who currently undertake clinical practice and has a direct influence on improving the delivery of safe patient care, as well as staff in clinical professions who do not currently deliver hands-on care but do have a role in improving patient care or safety.
An important aspect of the Fellowship is also the participation of Fellows from outside Scotland with long standing relationships with Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Norway and Denmark to mention but a few.
This page is intended to assist AHPs in finding out more information about Quality Improvement methodology as part of the AHP Quality Improvement Workstream.
The Aim of this workstream is that:
By Dec 2026 50% more AHPs will feel able to put QI methodology into practice as aligned to the AHP Learning and Development Strategic Framework.
The Lead for this workstream is Nikki Munro who is Professional Lead and Service Manager for Orthotics.
If you have any questions on the NHSGGC AHP QI workstream please get in touch with Nikki directly at nikki.munro@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
NHSGGC Quality Improvement Team
NHS GGC have an amazing Quality Improvement Team who are here to help with all things QI including supporting projects and compiling tools and information for those who are already carrying out QI projects.
There are loads of useful tools hosted on the NHSGGC Clinical Effectiveness QI page, however as this is hosted on staffnet, its only accessible to NHSGGC staff when logged into the NHSGGC network.
We are working to continually improve this page, so it would be really helpful if you click the link below to help give us feedback on how to make this page as useful to you as possible and please make suggestions on what you would like to see on here in future:
I know nothing about QI
Here are the main policies which give the background as to why Quality is important and what we should do to achieve the highest quality possible within Healthcare in Scotland.
As a very quick introduction to the fundamentals of Quality Improvement, click on the link below to complete the NHSGGC module. A great way to start your QI journey.
If you have completed the LearnPro module and would like to know more, click on the link below to complete the NES TURAS Learn introductory QI modules. A great way to continue your QI journey.
6) Introduction to demand, capacity, activity and queue
7) Introduction to Value Management
I know something about QI but want to know more
The Q Community is a connected community working together to improve health and care quality across the UK and Ireland. They have lots of useful resources.
Description: Improving planned care pathways toolkit
Reducing waiting times has been a key priority for NHS Scotland for over a decade, typically waiting times initiatives have been used to reduce the backlog of patients waiting for planned care. This toolkit has been developed, using learning from across Scotland, to support NHS boards in taking a quality improvement (QI) approach to sustainably reduce waiting times.
Planned care services can reduce the time patients wait by improving their pathways to balance the workload associated with referrals to the demand for care.
By using this toolkit, planned care teams will be able to:
establish an effective project team to test and implement changes
identify the constraints in their pathway contributing to the longest waits
understand service user needs
use learning from others to increase the pace of change, and
use data to demonstrate a sustainable improvement has occurred.
Description: Improving planned care pathways toolkit
Reducing waiting times has been a key priority for NHS Scotland for over a decade, typically waiting times initiatives have been used to reduce the backlog of patients waiting for planned care. This toolkit has been developed, using learning from across Scotland, to support NHS boards in taking a quality improvement (QI) approach to sustainably reduce waiting times.
Planned care services can reduce the time patients wait by improving their pathways to balance the workload associated with referrals to the demand for care.
By using this toolkit, planned care teams will be able to:
establish an effective project team to test and implement changes
identify the constraints in their pathway contributing to the longest waits
understand service user needs
use learning from others to increase the pace of change, and
use data to demonstrate a sustainable improvement has occurred.
Within NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde there are 12 different professions who are known collectively as AHPs. More information and links to the Profession Specific webpages can be found in the below drop down boxes.
“An Arts Therapist is a psychological therapist who has arts-based experience and training in psychological interventions using drama, music or art as their primary mode of communication”. (HCPC)
Art Psychotherapy is currently provided in the following areas within NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde:
Adult Specialist Mental Health Services
The Glasgow Psychological Trauma Service
Specialist Children’s Services, including in-patient settings and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
Prison Healthcare
What We Do
We provide a different approach for people who may struggle to access or make use of talking therapies.
It is a form of psychotherapy to help people who have been affected by injury, illness, disability and/or trauma, to communicate and understand difficult feelings. It can help to support their psychological, emotional, relational, cognitive and social difficulties.
We are a small profession and access is limited at present. Referrals would need to meet the criteria of those services. We are continually working on ways to expand the service.
What to expect at your appointment
You may be offered an individual or group treatment, depending on your needs.
Arts therapies are provided either virtually or in person. You will first meet your art psychotherapist to assess the problem and agree a plan for treatment. Together you will decide a suitable time and place for working together.
Sessions are confidential and held in a private room where you will have access to a range of art materials and resources.
Virtual sessions are held in an online meeting room using Near Me and for some people is a beneficial way to engage in their therapy.
You will work in collaboration with your therapist to identify what matters most to you to agree goals in therapy, regularly reviewing progress, agreeing timescales and planning your next steps (Realistic Medicine | NHS inform).
You may be offered appointments with a trainee Arts Therapists if this is right for you. We are happy to provide practice placements for the Msc Trainees from Queen Margaret University. All trainees will be supervised throughout their placements.
FAQs
Do I need to be good at art to take part?
You do not need to have any previous experience or expertise in art to benefit from Art Psychotherapy. The aim is to express, explore and manage what you’re feeling. This is a confidential process of art making. It is not about producing skilful art. Instead it is the relationship with the therapist aided by a process of creating art that can be of benefit. Arts Therapists will always use the best evidence and encourage you to work at a level comfortable for you, where you feel more able to express yourself and work towards achieving improved outcomes in your therapy.
How often will sessions take place?
Generally sessions take place on a weekly basis however this will be agreed with your therapist depending on what is right for you.
How are Arts Therapies (Art, Music, Drama) regulated?
In the UK, the title of Art therapist and Art psychotherapist are protected by law. All UK Art therapists must be registered with the HCPC. All registered Arts Therapists (Art, Music, Drama) can be found on the HCPC register.
Arts Therapists will follow robust allied health professional governance protocols and adherence to policies and guidance within NHSGGC.
Where to Find Us
For more information please email:
Tracy MacMillan Art Psychotherapist and Professional Lead for Arts Therapies Art Psychotherapist Specialist Mental Health Services The Glasgow Psychological Trauma Service
Radiotherapy is the use of radiation, usually x-rays, to treat cancer. Radiotherapy can be used to try to cure cancer, reduce the chance of cancer coming back or to help relieve symptoms. It is normally given in conjunction with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or surgery.
Radiographers
Radiographers are regulated professionals with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). They are entitled to hold one of the protected titles Radiographer, Diagnostic Radiographer or Therapeutic Radiographer. Radiographers undertake a broad portfolio of either diagnostic examinations or radiotherapy procedures. They work in partnership with team members, patients and carers to deliver care that may include screening, diagnosis, treatment or health monitoring for patients.
Health and Care Professions Council
To register, radiographers must hold a relevant BSc (Hons) or MSc qualification. To maintain registration with the HCPC Radiographers must undertake and keep a record of their continued professional development. In addition to HCPC standards, radiographers work to the standards of the Society of Radiographers code of professional conduct. The code includes expectations that radiographers act in accordance with values of respect, empowerment, empathy, trustworthiness, integrity and justice. Radiographers must always act with compassion: caring for patients is at the heart of what radiographers do.
Therapeutic Radiographers
Therapeutic radiographers are responsible for the planning and delivery of accurate radiotherapy treatments using a wide range of technical equipment. Accuracy is critical, for example, the aim of treatment may be to treat a tumour and destroy diseased tissue while minimising the amount of radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Together both diagnostic and therapeutic radiography professionals provide essential services every year to millions of people.
Post Qualification
Radiographers follow career paths according to a combination of their personal interests and the needs of healthcare services and patients. Promotion opportunities are excellent, with a grading structure that sees the radiographer’s salary increase as they move along the career pathway. British radiographers are recognised as receiving excellent training with innovative career paths.
Autonomy
Therapeutic Radiographers are able to initiate resolution of problems and be able to exercise personal initiative
Therapeutic Radiographers recognise that they are personally responsible for and must be able to justify their decisions
They are able to make and receive appropriate referrals
They understand the importance of participation in training, supervision and mentoring
Therapeutic Radiographers are able to assess a professional situation, determine the nature and severity of the problem and call upon the required knowledge and experience to deal with the problem
They are also able to make reasoned decisions to initiate, continue, modify or cease radiotherapy treatment or diagnostic imaging examinations and record the decisions and reasoning appropriately
Advanced Practice
A growing number of Therapeutic radiographers undertake tumour site specific roles or specialist treatment roles (at both advanced and consultant level practice), where they are responsible for their own patient load from treatment referral, through treatment to post treatment follow up.
Multi-disciplinary Practice
Therapeutic radiographers take part in the multi-disciplinary approach to patient management by attending and participating in MDT meetings. This ensures continuity of care for patients across their cancer journey, with improved levels of care for all patients as well as efficiency benefits for the service.
Research radiographers
Therapeutic radiographers are also involved in clinical research at all levels. This ranges from recruitment to trials through to radiographer led research studies to evaluate the newer technologies and techniques as part of providing evidence based practice.
Radiotherapy Managers
Radiotherapy Service Managers are professional qualified managers responsible for the strategic delivery and planning of the service along with the day to day operational management of radiotherapy services. Their professional training and expertise is critical to the provision of safe and efficient radiotherapy services.
Image interpretation
Image interpretation and reporting by radiographers was initially established in ultrasound. This has now become firmly embedded within the scope of practice of therapeutic radiographers. They undertake image acquisition and interpretation utilising their advanced training in the decision making process.
Radiotherapy Information and Support Service
Having treatment for cancer can be a difficult time for anyone. You may benefit from talking to our Information and Support Radiographer.
They can provide information and support to help you while you are having your treatment.
They can provide:
Support when you need it.
Give relevant and timely information on Radiotherapy treatments, side-effects and other relevant issues, particularly on how best to cope
Explain and clarify medical terms
Provide a confidential service to discuss any concerns or questions you may have regarding your treatment
Refer you to appropriate professionals or services that may be of assistance to you/may help you
Offer telephone support
How to get in touch
If you think you would benefit from seeing them, ask your Radiographers to contact them or you can phone them on 0141 301 7427.
Please leave a message and they will call you back as soon as possible.
Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy is considered part of the AHP family in NHSGGC while not being an actual Allied Health profession.
We are recruiting for a Modern Apprentice (MA) Assistant Health Improvement Practitioner to join the Health Improvement team in the South of Glasgow.
Health Improvement describes the work to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals or communities through enabling and encouraging healthy choices as well as addressing underlying determinants of health such as poverty and lack of educational opportunities. We work with a wide range of partners to influence policy, service provision and wider environmental factors that help support positive health outcomes for our population, especially those in greatest need.
What are you recruiting for?
Our Modern Apprenticeship programme is aligned to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Widening Access to Employment Strategy and workforce projections. This means that this post is only open to people who are aged between 16 to 24 years (or 16 to 29 years for Disabled or Care Experienced* people) on 1st November 2022 and who meet our shortlisting requirements.
This is an entry level position suitable for a young person who is willing to learn and develop within the role and has an interest in working in a community setting in a role that works to improve health outcomes for people.
We are committed to recruiting a workforce that reflects our population and we welcome applications from people from Black, Asian or other Minority Ethnic backgrounds, from LGBTQ+ candidates, Care Experienced* people and Disabled people.
This programme is designed as an entry route into the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Improvement Service and we encourage applications from school leavers
*The term “care experienced” refers to anyone who has been, or is currently in care. This includes kinship care where you are living/lived with a relative who is not your parent, or looked after with the help of social work, or living/lived in Residential care, Foster care, secure care or Adoption
Who can apply?
Suitable candidates who meet our academic and age requirements could include those with experience in any of the following:
school based buddy, mentor or befriending programmes
What type of person are you hoping to recruit?
As well as demonstrating that you meet the meet the academic criteria you must also demonstrate in your application that you are genuinely interested in working a community setting in a role that works to improve health outcomes for people. Any previous experience of voluntary work, community support or charity work, peer support, caring responsibilities, school based buddy or mentoring schemes or befriending programmes would be beneficial to highlight in your application
What are the most important personal qualities required for the role?
You will need good communication, inter-personal and organisational skills and demonstrate self-motivation and self-reliance. You should be keen to help out and be flexible in your approach to ensure the best outcome is achieved for our service users.
Your application needs to demonstrate that you have the ability to work as part of a team and to work on your own initiative. Examples of this could include Duke of Edinburgh awards, Foundation Apprenticeships or any development programmes or projects undertaken at school, college or any customer focused or team work experience gained in the workplace.
Good interpersonal, team work and communication skills are essential in providing a professional and efficient service. You will be working as part of a wider team so your application should show us that you have good organisational skills, are self-motivated and are flexible in your approach to insure the best outcome is achieved for our patients. Your application should show us that you are someone who is keen to learn new things and has an enthusiastic and positive approach to work.
A confident manner and positive attitude will benefit you as following a period of induction and training you will be attending meetings, delivering training and supporting group work and hosting or supporting other activities. Any experience you have in leading or motivating people, public speaking, occasions where you have stepped outside your comfort zone and challenged yourself, or taken on new responsibilities or learned new skills quickly would be beneficial to highlight in your application.
As you will travel cross site/sector, flexibility is also an essential requirement.
More About the Role
The South Glasgow Health Improvement Team are based within the South Locality of Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP).
We are one of three locality based Health Improvement Teams in Glasgow City. The team aim to improve health outcomes and reduce health inequalities for people living in South Glasgow.
The Health Improvement Team in the South Locality is comprised of approximately 40 staff, working in five sub-teams (Portfolio 1, Portfolio 2, Portfolio 3, Portfolio 4, Portfolio 5).
Our work focuses on a wide range of health improvement programmes, for example:
Priority health topics, for example mental health, tobacco, poverty and financial inclusion
Ages and stages, including early years, young people and older people
Place-based working in neighbourhoods/communities of high deprivation.
Place-based work targets particular neighbourhoods/communities within South Glasgow where deprivation significantly impacts on health. Portfolio 4 has a lead responsibility for Priesthill and Househillwood Thriving Place
We work closely with partners for example Health care staff, Local Authority staff and the voluntary sector.
Our team aims to do the best we can to improve health and reduce health inequalities. We have a range of experiences and backgrounds, making us quite a diverse team.
As an Apprentice you will work as part of the Child and Youth Health Improvement Team to improving health outcomes and life experiences for the children and young people in South Glasgow. As the apprenticeship develops you will also get the opportunity to support some of the other portfolios to develop your knowledge and experience of other health topics and areas.
We do this in a number of ways and there is wide variety in the work our team are involved in which you support.
This can include for example supporting the training and capacity building for cost of the school day programme which aims at tackling child poverty, supporting the development of Bank for Youth our youth engagement programme, which ensures young people’s voices are heard and involved in decision making and by being a key partner in local networks/forums, and supporting training/events that the team are involved in.
You will be encouraged to participate in a variety of health training, for example Healthy Minds, to build on their knowledge and understanding of health and wellbeing. Health Issues in the community to understanding how issues such as poverty and inequalities impact on communities.
Your duties will include:
Supporting team members to organise and prepare to deliver training
Supporting team members to host and deliver training sessions on a wide range of health topics (could be online or face-to-face)
Supporting team members to plan and host community networks and events (could be online or face-to-face)
Participating in community networks
Researching and learning about key partner organisations we work with
Shadow staff from each of our four sub-teams (streams) to learn about a wide range of programmes of work the team are involved in.
You can find out more about the work of Health Improvement teams on our Health Improvement pages.
Training Outline
The training delivered during your apprenticeship will be a blend of ‘on the job’ learning and college-based learning. During the training programme you will have a local training supervisor and mentor.
This Apprenticeship is made up of 3 elements
Workplace Training
A Scottish Vocation Qualification (SVQ)
College Qualification (Certificate and HNC)
During your Apprenticeship you are expected to attend regular reviews to discuss your progress and development needs, and are expected to stick to the agreed training plan. This includes attending internal and external training and taking responsibility, with support, to collect the evidence required that proves competence in the job role
You may be attending on a part time and/or distance learning basis.
How is the SVQ Delivered?
An SVQ is a qualification that shows that you can perform a job to nationally recognised standards and is made up of several units, each one of which describes an aspect of the job.
You will be assessed at your workplace (Health Improvement Team) using observation, professional discussion and work-related evidence and assessed on the skills you use every day in your job.
This will be demonstrated through your every day job role with support and qualification assessment provided internally by a team of experienced work based assessors. There are no exams involved in an SVQ.
During your apprenticeship you are expected to work towards an agreed Training Plan. This is subject to review and alteration. Please also note that changes to the college based activity may be subject to change.
What happens at the end of the Modern Apprenticeship?
On successful completion of all elements of the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Modern Apprenticeship Programme we will support your transition into permanent employment within the organisation.
What qualifications will I hold when I complete this Apprenticeship?
The successful completion the Training programme will result in you achieving a
Scottish Vocational Qualification ( SCQF Level 7) in Health Care Support (Non Clinical)
Certificate in Youth Work Practice
HNC in Working With Communities (SCQF Level 7)
Core Skills that you have not achieved through previous learning.
This post reflects the following Modern Apprenticeship Framework:
Upon completion of the apprenticeship candidates will have attained a profile of knowledge, training and experience equivalent to SCQF Level 7 with experience of a range of Assistant Health Improvement Practitioner duties acquired through training. Over the course of the programme you will build a portfolio of your training that will be used as evidence of your competence.
Throughout your training you will be encouraged to become a reflective practitioner and measure your skills and knowledge to align your work against the UK Public Health Skills and Knowledge Framework. This will support you to then work towards gaining accreditation as a Public Health Practitioner through the UK Public Health Registration (UKPHR) Scheme, open to you when you have minimum 3 years work experience within the health improvement field.
Entry Requirements
In order to be considered for interview your Application Form must clearly demonstrate that you meet the following criteria:
A National 5 qualification (or SCQF equivalent) at Grade A-C in English or ESOL and at least two other National 4 qualifications (or SCQF equivalent).
Are within the Specified Age Range
Fully complete the assessment question section of the application form (see candidate pack) to demonstrate that you have the interpersonal skills and qualities we require for this post.
We operate a Guaranteed Interview scheme for Care Experienced* and Disabled applicants who meet the minimum selection criteria for this post. Please contact Mark.Goldie@ggc.scot.nhs.uk for more details
*The term “care experienced” refers to anyone who has been, or is currently in care. This includes kinship care where you are living/lived with a relative who is not your parent, or looked after with the help of social work, or living/lived in Residential care, Foster care, secure care or Adoption.
Summary Terms and Conditions
What qualifications will I hold when I complete this programme?
On completion of your apprenticeship, in addition to the work place training and competencies relevant to the role that you will achieve you will also be awarded:
What happens at the end of the Modern Apprenticeship?
On successful completion of all elements of the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Modern Apprenticeship Programme we will support your transition into permanent employment within the organisation.
Where will I be based?
The team office is based in Pollok Health Centre, 21 Cowglen Road, Glasgow, G53 6EQ
Travel to other locations within the Board area, mainly in South Glasgow will be required. This might be to attend meetings/forums, training or to meet with community groups.
All staff are entitled to apply for the following benefits on appointment:
Interest free loan to purchase Zonecard’s – a flexible season ticket for unlimited travel by rail, subway, most buses and even some ferries (details on public transport routes to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s sites can be found by visiting Travel Information for Staff – NHSGGC or visit www.spt.co.uk/travelinfo
Cycle to Work Scheme, for staff to purchase a bicycle and any equipment needed and then repay those costs through their salary.
Travel Expenses where appropriate
How much will I be paid and how many hours a week will I work?
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is a living wage employer and this apprenticeship will pay £9.50 per hour or £18,571 (2021 rate) per annum.
As an employee of Greater Glasgow and Clyde you will also be entitled to all the benefits that our staff receive including a minimum of 27 days paid annual leave, an additional 8 days paid public holidays and enrolment in the NHS Scotland Pension Scheme.
All staff are entitled to apply for the following benefits on appointment:
Interest free loan to purchase Zonecard’s – a flexible season ticket for unlimited travel by rail, subway, most buses and even some ferries (details on public transport routes to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s sites can be found by visiting Travel Information for Staff – NHSGGC or visit the SPT website.
Cycle to Work Scheme, for staff to purchase a bicycle and any equipment needed and then repay those costs through their salary.
Apply
Before you start your application.
Step 1 – Download and save the Candidate Information Pack – Make sure you understand the role, the apprenticeship programme and the type of person we are looking to recruit before you submit your application form.
To stand the best chance of getting an interview you we encourage you to follow the guidance in the Candidate Information Pack and outlined in the “What do you need to tell us in your application form” section below
What you need to tell us on your application form
When completing your application form please ensure that:
You provide us with full contact details
You provide us with your full education history.
You provide details of any employment history, if any.
If you have no employment history you can include volunteering or work experience placements in employment history section.
You provide full contact details for a least 2 referees (education, employment or character). Please see the candidate information pack for guidance on who can provide references.
Complete the Assessment Questions Section of the Application form – see “What else do you need to know” section.
You will be asked three questions in the assessment section of the application form and we would like to answer them as follows:
Why do you think you are suitable for this role?
How to Answer: In the information pack we have told what kind of person we are hoping to recruit. Give us examples that show us you have the skills and attributes you will need for this job.
Tell us about the skills and personal qualities you have and how you have developed them e.g. through work, volunteering, school/college practical subject based tasks (any school subjects any hobbies or pastimes that can demonstrate your skills), any clubs or after school/college groups/other interests that demonstrate the communication skills and personal qualities we are seeking.
Don’t just tell us you have a skill or attribute – give us examples and tell us how they would help you in this job.
Why do you want to work for the NHS?
How to Answer: Tell us why are you interested in a becoming an Assistant Health Improvement Practitioner. We have told you in the supporting information and job description what the job involves so tell us why you think you would be good applicant.
Tell us about your interest in working in Health Improvement and why this is the career path for you. What is it about this job that appeals to you and why did you apply for the programme?
Is there any other relevant information that will assist us in shortlisting your application?
How to Answer: Tell us a bit more about you. How do your family, friends, teachers/employers describe you? Tell us about your achievements (e.g. Duke of Edinburgh or other awards, hobbies and interests), any talents or aspirations or anything else you think might be relevant to your application. We want to know what interests you and how other people see you. If you are a Care Experienced Applicant please tell us here.
*The term “care experienced” refers to anyone who has been, or is currently in care. This includes kinship care where you are living/lived with a relative who is not your parent, or looked after with the help of social work, or living/lived in Residential care, Foster care, Secure care or Adoption.
How do you decide who to Interview?
We base our decision on who to interview by assessing the information you have provided on your application form and your responses to the questions you have been asked to address in the assessment section.
Make sure you are including in your application all the information we have asked you for in the Candidate Information Pack
Can I visit the department to find out more about this job?
We cant host visits just now but we would encourage any interested applicants to attend an online information session for this post
When will interviews take place?
Candidates selected for interview will be invited to attend an online interview preparation session
Interview Preparation – Scheduled for Week Commencing 29th August 2022
Interviews for this post will take place in two stages.*
Stage 1 Interviews will take place through Video Conferencing using MS teams
Stage 1 – First Interview scheduled for 31st August 2022
Candidates who are successful after Stage 1 will be invited to attend an In Person final interview
Stage 2 – Final in person interview – Week Commencing 5th September 2022
*Please note that this process and these dates may change in line with Covid19 Guidance.
When will this apprenticeship start?
We anticipate that the successful candidate will start employment in early to mid October 2022, subject to the time taken to complete pre employment checks.
Save money! Get fit! Help the environment!
In this section you will find information, links and various initiatives that makes it cheaper, easier and more environmentally sustainable for staff to travel to and from their place of work and between sites. Many staff have to travel for business during the working day. Many of the local journeys could be far more pleasant and convenient if we do not take a car, and cycling for short trips can be just as quick as driving.
