Devon Partnership NHS Trust has become the latest employer, and first in the South West, to sign up to UNISON’s apprenticeship charter.
The charter highlights that well-funded, high-quality apprenticeships leading to a meaningful job make an important contribution in addressing skills gaps and tackling unemployment.
UNISON representative Caroline Emery said: “We have been working towards this for the past two years.
“We are proud to have been the first South West branch to get to this point and we hope our work can be a model for future agreements in the region.”
Under the charter, the trust has pledged to do everything it can to grant apprentices’ rights to an employment contract and a job offer once their apprenticeship is complete.
It also calls for apprenticeships to be developed jointly by employers, trade unions, training providers, and apprentices.
Lead for apprenticeships in Devon Partnership Trust Paul Blackmore said: “We’re proud to be the first NHS Trust in the South West to partner with UNISON in signing the charter. Working together with UNISON to offer the promises of the charter will support a positive future for the trust.”
Devon Partnership Trust’s head of education and training Dr Floraidh Rolf added: ”Apprentices are an amazing and integral part of our trust’s workforce and its future.
“The programme offers lots of opportunities to both recruit and retain employees by enabling new staff to join and existing staff to up-skill.”
UNISON regional learning & development organiser Natalie Chadwick said: “After completing an apprenticeship myself this year, I know how this charter will enable employees to feel valued while building their confidence and skills and empower them at work.
“Hopefully more NHS trusts will see the benefit and want to sign UNISON’s Apprenticeship Charter.”
