Essential Training in the NHS: Navigating Statutory and Mandatory Learning

Every day, the National Health Service (NHS) interacts with approximately 1.3 million people, playing a pivotal role in the health and wellbeing of the UK’s population. In an ever-changing world with a constantly evolving healthcare landscape, it’s crucial for the NHS workforce to be well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. Adequate training is paramount to maintaining the highest standards of care and ensuring patient and staff safety.

Training within the NHS is categorized into two main types: statutory and mandatory training. This article, in collaboration with the We Are The NHS campaign, aims to shed light on the significance of these training types, exploring their definitions, importance, and the fundamental principles they encompass. Understanding statutory and mandatory training is vital for all NHS employees, from those newly joining the service to seasoned healthcare workers, to perform their roles effectively and safely.

Who Needs to Complete Statutory and Mandatory Training?

Statutory and mandatory training is requisite for all NHS employees, including temporary and permanent staff, those on honorary contracts, and individuals on secondment. This encompasses a wide range of professionals from frontline healthcare workers to those in various essential roles across the NHS.

Understanding the Core Skills Training Framework (CSTF)

At the heart of statutory and mandatory training is the Core Skills Training Framework (CSTF), a widely recognized benchmark across UK healthcare employers, including the NHS. The CSTF sets out minimum training requirements, specifies how often training should be refreshed, and links to relevant legislation. It covers essential topics such as Fire Safety, Conflict Resolution, and Equality, Diversity, and Human Rights, forming a comprehensive framework for healthcare professionals.

Defining Statutory Training

Statutory training, often considered the most critical, is mandated by law to ensure employee and workplace safety. It’s informed by legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Statutory training is fundamental for most NHS roles, covering broad safety principles applicable across various environments.

The Importance of Mandatory Training

While mandatory training is tailored to the specific requirements of a role or organization, it is equally essential. It ensures staff, patients, and visitors are safeguarded, and that services operate in compliance with legislation and policies. Mandatory training topics might include Safeguarding, Hazardous Substance Awareness, and Information Governance, focusing on the practical skills needed to maintain safety and care standards.

Refreshing Your Training

The frequency of training refreshers varies by type and organizational policy, typically occurring annually. The NHS conducts formal reviews of mandatory and statutory training needs biennially to ensure relevancy and compliance.

Where to Find Training Resources

Virtual College offers a broad spectrum of training suitable for NHS staff, covering both mandatory and statutory topics. These resources are designed to help NHS services meet compliance targets and support staff in fulfilling their roles safely and effectively.

FAQs

• What are the 6 C’s of the NHS?
  The 6 C’s — Care, Competence, Compassion, Communication, Commitment, and Courage — are core values that guide NHS staff in delivering high-quality care.
• How Long is NHS Mandatory Training Valid For?
  Mandatory training is typically refreshed annually, though specific courses may vary in validity length.
• What’s the Difference Between Mandatory Training and the Care Certificate?
  While mandatory training focuses on essential safety and care practices, the Care Certificate concentrates on the behaviors and standards expected of healthcare sector employees, providing foundational skills for quality care.

Summary

Statutory and mandatory training are foundational to the NHS, ensuring staff are equipped to provide top-tier care while maintaining a safe working environment. These training programs cover a vast range of topics, fostering an inclusive and secure atmosphere for all in the healthcare sector. With the support of initiatives like the We Are The NHS campaign, NHS staff are empowered to continually develop their skills, contributing to the overall excellence of the NHS.