New training structure proposed for care providers

The government has welcomed the publication of an independent report into new ways of enhancing training and support for those in the caring profession.

According to the independent Cavendish Review – which was led by Sunday Times associate editor Camilla Cavendish – all healthcare assistants and social care support workers should undergo the same basic training, based on existing best practice guidelines. 

All staff would need to receive a Certificate of Fundamental Care before they can look after people unsupervised, while a Higher Certificate of Fundamental Care would allow talented workers to progress into nursing and social care.

These and other proposals have been devised to help avoid a repeat of the high-profile failings seen at the Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, with the government set to provide a formal response to the review this autumn.

Health secretary Jeremy Hunt said: "We are determined to build a compassionate health and social care system – one where people are always treated as individuals, with kindness and respect."

Earlier this month, the government announced plans to increase the personal accountability of care home and hospital directors who preside over serious cases of neglect and abuse.