CARERS at a home for the elderly have been given fresh confidence as well as new skills after starting apprenticeships.

A growing number of staff at the Hollie Hill home in South Stanley in County Durham have been working with training provider Babcock International and after getting level two NVQs are now working on the next stage.

Vocational learning adviser Lynette Simpson visits the home regularly setting assignments, assessing what they’ve learned and giving extra support as they gain skills and knowledge.

Hollie Hill manager Jackie Coulson said: “I’m really pleased with the support from Lynette Simpson, who has provided staff with the knowledge and understanding they need to operate effectively in their job roles.

“Previously, staff had been lacking confidence and I used to hear them refer to themselves as ‘just a carer’. Now, staff are realising what they’re capable of and through the NVQ programme are realising just how important their work is. A lot of the learners are more mature and have been away from any sort of formal education since school and as a result the idea of working towards a qualification can be very frightening.

“With the support of Lynette and the Babcock team, they have found a new confidence, realising their capacity for learning and enjoying the process. Their new knowledge, skill and confidence helps them to be more observant and understanding which benefits the residents and Hollie Hill enormously.”

Simpson said: “I really enjoy my visits to Hollie Hill and I feel like I am one of the team, working at the home for the benefit of all the residents. I know that if I have any concerns, Jackie will provide the time to support and resolve them. I know it’s a job well done when I see the learners progress onto Level 3 Diplomas. I’m looking forward to more and more success stories at Hollie Hill.”