£1.23 million funding for social worker degree apprenticeships announced
27 November 2023
Members of North Northamptonshire Council’s (NNC) Executive are pleased to announce joint funding of Social Worker Degree Apprenticeships with West Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire Children’s Trust.
At a cost of £1.23 million, the project will be led by NNC, and the money will be split three ways, coming from each organisation’s Apprenticeship Levy fund.
Up to 55 members of staff could be enrolled onto the Social Worker Integrated Degree Apprenticeship across Northamptonshire by 2026, with the first 15 apprentices starting training in September 2024.
The scheme offers people already working in social care the chance to embark on a new and rewarding career, make a difference to the lives of local children, and longer term - helps to retain employees within the county.
The Council will aim to open bid opportunities in time to award a contract in February 2024.
This looks like a very good opportunity to develop the council's workforce cross authority, benefit the people who need them the most and invest in the future of social work.Cllr Helen Harrison, Executive Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing at North Northamptonshire Council
It is well known and accepted that where families in need are supported effectively by social care, their children will experience improved outcomes and they will be supported to access appropriate services to improve their own economic and social circumstances. The work is vital, and the need is great.
Our vision is one where North Northamptonshire is a place where everyone has the best opportunities and quality of life.Cllr Jason Smithers, The Leader of North Northamptonshire Council
As part of this vision we have committed to caring for our young people, providing them with a high quality education and opportunities to help them flourish and live active, independent and fulfilled lives.
This is a fantastic opportunity both for people to embark on a career as a social worker and to make a real difference to the lives of North Northamptonshire's children and families.
Having this funding agreed will greatly assist in our commitment to ensure children, young people and families get the support they need to achieve the best possible outcomes. Our workforce are an invaluable asset and investing in them is critical to ensuring they have the skills to support our children and families.Julian Wooster, Chair of Northamptonshire Children’s Trust
It is so important we invest in our workforce, and I am really pleased of this announcement for additional funding that will enable us to do this together. By investing in our social workers enables us to retain a skilled and supported workforce that will help provide the best possible support for our children, young people and their families.Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council