New learning centre opens for care practitioners and nurses in the private care sector

A new learning centre has opened at Pendine Park Care Organisation Ltd in Wrexham, Wales.

The new learning centre for care workers and nurses in the private care sector was officially opened by Wrexham Assembly Member, Lesley Griffiths, who is also the Welsh Health Minister.

Ms Griffiths said: “The issue of lifelong learning and upskilling is something very close to my heart.

“If we can ensure that our staff are up-skilled and are able to access learning in such a great environment as they are at this learning centre, the people that will benefit are the people are receiving care.”

The aim of the centre is to provide personal and professional development for nurses and care practitioners working in the private care sector.

The centre is within the offices of Smartcare, the training arm of Pendine Park care home, and is the first of its kind to be located within an independent sector care organisation.

Pendine Park owner, Mario Kreft said: "Our people are our most valuable asset. What we’re trying to do here is work with partners to ensure that Pendine people and others have the very best opportunity possible for their professional and personal development, and particularly for their learning.

"I think what is often overlooked is the breadth of skill that nurses and care practitioners need when working in the independent centre. The independent sector in Wales provides as many beds as the NHS - it’s got over 12,000 beds for people registered with nurses in care."

The initiative was made possible by a partnership including the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), the Wales TUC and the Betsi Cadwaladr Trust with seed corn funding of £1,600 coming from the Welsh Government via the Wales Union Learning Fund (WULF).

Elizabeth Rees, a learning representative with the RCN, said: “About a third of our members are in the independent sector so this is a very important step and we’re really delighted that it’s happening.

“Nurses and health care assistants give so much while they’re working, but you can’t keep giving and giving without enabling people to access learning.”

Image: Lesley Griffiths AM cuts the ribbon at the opening of the new learning centre Hillbury House watched by Liz Rees, Mario Kreft, Anita Curley and Barbara Hale