Strategy launched to attract and retain health workers

Ways of attracting and retaining workers into the health and care sector in Newtown and throughout Powys have been revealed as part of a new strategy.

The ‘Workforce Futures’ Health and Care Strategic Framework has been commissioned by Powys Regional Partnership Board, and is the first of its kind in Wales.

The framework explains how partners across Powys will design workforce models that attract and retain more staff, through improved leadership, enhanced training, learning and development, supported wellbeing, and continued partnership working for years to come.

Carol Shillabeer, Chair of Powys Regional Partnership Board, said: “I’m delighted that we’re launching this strategic framework. We need to transform the way we deliver care in Powys and our workforce is the single most important factor in doing this.

“Our health and care workforce doesn’t just include staff from the local health board and county council; it’s much wider than that.

“It includes people working across the private, independent and the third sector, as well as volunteers and carers who play a significant role in delivering health and care services.

“Over 300 people from across these sectors have had their say and helped shape the future plans which will lead to greater outcomes for both service-users and employees alike.

“Because of this we know the strategic framework reflects the views of our workforce whilst aligning to the long-term objectives in Powys’ Health and Care Strategy: ‘A Healthy Caring Powys’.”

Julie Rowles, Director of Workforce and Organisational Development at Powys Teaching Health Board, said: “Our workforce continues to work hard to deliver exemplary health and care services in Powys.

“The strategic framework articulates our commitment to support and invest in our workforce, ensuring that collectively, we deliver services with confidence in our communities.”

Ness Young, Corporate Director (Resources and Transformation) at Powys County Council, said: “Our workforce is our greatest asset and we want our employees to be confident, skilled and well-supported.

“The plans explain how we will invest in the workforce so that people are as effective as possible in their roles and help deliver our priorities.”

“It puts the foundations in place to ensure we have a competent, diverse and healthy workforce that can deliver excellent care whilst enjoying a work-life balance.”

Read the strategic framework here: www.powysrpb.org/workforce-futures