NHS London ‘Return to Practice’ programme offers free training & new jobs for Health Visitors

Nov. 24, 2010 - PRLog -- They are currently offering a ‘Return to Practice’ training programme which has been designed to offer a flexible way to attract those that have left Health Visiting to return to practice, with the additional incentive of financial support. Interested candidates are being urged to apply immediately as the deadline of 6th December is just days away.

The course which is offered at two London universities, combines taught theory with a practice placement within an NHS trust, with NHS London paying for course fees by providing a minimum bursary of £1000. The course is short and flexible so students can re-register as a Health Visitor while keeping up with other commitments of work or child care. Completion of the course allows re-registration with the NMC, immediately opening up new career opportunities. NHS London is also committed to supporting students in finding employment thereafter.

Increasing evidence shows that health and wellbeing in pregnancy and childhood impacts upon health in later life. Despite this, over the past decade, there has been a decline in the number of practising Health Visitors whilst the national birth rate continues to rise.  Whilst there have been high profile cuts in public sector jobs, last month’s Spending Review highlighted that the Government has reconfirmed its pledge to increase Health Visitors by 4200 over the next five years.

Professor Trish Morris-Thompson, Chief Nurse at NHS London said:
“We are one of two strategic health authorities, NHS London and NHS East Midlands, that are currently implementing a Department of Health led pilot project aimed at addressing workforce shortages by enabling Health Visitors to return to practice. This economic climate is the perfect time to provide new opportunities for those looking to refresh their qualifications and return to work.

Candidates may have left Health Visiting for varying periods of time ranging from a few to several years. In this time though, they have gained further knowledge and experience which means they can offer an even greater contribution to the role of a Health Visitor today and it might now be a job that better suits their lifestyle. This drive will help to ensure that the crucial support Health Visitors provide is available to everybody, both now and in the future.”

For those interested in applying for the course, please go to:
http://www.london.nhs.uk/hvreturntopractice  The deadline for applications is 6th December 2010!

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For media enquiries contact Daniel Pople in the NHS London Communications Team on 0207 9323911; out of office hours please call 0844 8222888 and ask for pager LON01