New training platform launched to support career progression

Leading specialist dementia care provider Vida Healthcare has invested in its staff and the social care talent of the future with the launch of its training platform, Vida Academy.

The training platform has been designed to support all of Vida’s staff, including new starters and senior managers, and provide opportunities for career progression. The Academy promotes lifelong learning across the organisation and establishes staff as dementia ambassadors.

A range of courses are offered through the training platform, including a mentorship programme for staff to support new starters, house managers development programme, student placements, and a reinvigorated Care Certificate offer.

Sharon Oldfield, Trainee Home Manager at Vida Grange has recently benefited from training through Vida Academy. Commenting on her experience and the opportunities that have arisen, she said: “Since it was launched, the support and opportunities that have been provided by Vida Academy have allowed me to learn the skills needed to become a Trainee Home Manager at Vida Grange, with the opportunity to be the Home Manager for our brand new care home, Vida Court, once it opens later this year.

“I wholeheartedly believe that if you work hard and never stop learning, the opportunities for development in your career are endless. I took a leap of faith when I joined Vida and through its ongoing commitment to supporting its staff, this choice paid dividends for me.”

The training platform also includes a dedicated app which provides regular activity updates and opportunities, alongside the latest research, development and best practice in dementia and social care.

The Academy is coordinated by John and Helen Daly; Learning, Development & Performance Programme Managers at Vida Healthcare. John and Helen bring over 36 years of health and social care experience to Vida and the training platform.

Helen Daly, Learning, Development & Performance Programme Manager at Vida Healthcare, added: “We launched Vida Academy with our current and future staff in mind. We’re always looking for new and innovative ways to support our workforce in their career progression, and provide the highest quality of care to our residents.

“Sharon’s experience, and those of our other staff members who’ve completed courses through Vida Academy, highlights the vital role that training plays in encouraging people to view social care as a serious career which can have such a significant impact on the lives of so many vulnerable people across the country.”

Vida Healthcare is currently recruiting for a number of roles including a Night Nurse, Care Assistant and Nurse Lead across its two care homes; Vida Hall and Vida Grange, all of which will benefit from the training available through Vida Academy.