BUPA leads the way in training Scottish carers

BUPA Care Homes has surpassed the training standards set by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) - raising the levels of care for older people to new heights.

This year, more than 400 BUPA carers have successfully completed their Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) level 2 or above in Health Care.

This means all 30 of BUPA's Care Homes across Scotland have achieved staff training levels above those set by COSLA.

An SVQ level 2 recognises the valuable work and contribution of care workers in providing high standards of care for older people.

It enhances carers' knowledge and understanding of their role, their responsibility and accountability, and the importance of recognising the changing needs of the individuals within their care.

BUPA Care Homes has invested £500,000 this year in the training scheme, which builds on its award-winning Personal Best people development programme.

A further 75 BUPA carers have been registered to start their SVQ before the end of 2007.

Kenny Valentine, director, BUPA Care Homes Scotland, said: "BUPA believes well-trained and committed people are vital in providing the highest quality of care to older people in Scotland and we are pleased to be leading the way in this.

"We are determined to invest in our people, through training and development, and in our buildings and facilities to ensure that we are providing care that is tailored to the individual's needs." BUPA Care Homes' Personal Best programme, which encourages carers to provide a truly individual service, won the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development's annual People Management Award and was also recently short-listed for the CBI Human Capital Awards.

Back to top