New enhanced training to support allied health professionals to take careers further

The training will be available for practitioners across seven allied health professions (Dietetics, Diagnostic Radiography, Occupational Therapy, Operating Department Practitioners, Physiotherapy, Podiatry and Prosthetists and Orthotists).

The new Enhanced Clinical Practice (ECP) project will provide a framework for structured education pathways and apprenticeships for allied health professionals, helping to support career progression and retain staff, many of whom leave in their early to mid-stage careers. It will aim to support the development of the workforce, ensuring people can continually grow and update the skills they need throughout their careers.

Dr Gill Rawlinson, Director of Allied and Public Health at the University of Salford, said: “There are significant issues with retention and a lack of clear career development opportunities for allied health professionals and we really hope that through this work with Health Education England (HEE) we will be able to address this need.

“This new training framework will offer a means for people to develop their careers further and feel more valued without having to leave the profession they love and are skilled at. The University of Salford and Coventry University are both among the largest providers of Allied and Public Health subjects in England, and we are proud and excited to be working together to develop and deliver this innovative new programme.”

Amanda Royston, Associate Dean in the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences at Coventry University, said: “We are proud to be undertaking this important project with the University of Salford; using our combined strength and expertise in the education and development of allied health professionals to deliver new education pathways and apprenticeships for the health and social care sector across England.”

Dr Kim Stuart, AHP Professional Development Lead at Coventry University stated that: “We are working with Health Education England, health and social care employers across England, professional bodies, and allied health professionals to ensure that the new education pathways and apprenticeships are fit for purpose and deliver the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to deliver high-quality person-centred care.”