Council backs social care staff development

Some local social care staff at Powys County Council are developing their skills through the Open University and the support of the council.

A dozen staff have been backed to study for an Open University degree as part of the council's work to develop its workforce.
 
The employees, who work in a variety of roles within social care throughout the county will be supported to study for the BA (Hons) Social Work Degree over the next few years. Once qualified, they would then be eligible to apply for Social Worker posts.
 
Councillor Myfanwy Alexander is Cabinet Member with responsibility for Adult Social Care. She commented: "'Powys County Council know that their most important resource is their staff and we are always looking for opportunities to invest in our staff to allow them to progress in their career. This investment demonstrates that a career in care in Powys can lead to wide opportunities."
 
Her  views were echoed by Cllr. Rachel Powell, who is Cabinet Member with responsibility for social care for Children and Families. She commented: "'I am extremely delighted that we can support our staff towards fulfilling their personal goals in undertaking their social work degree. Having social care staff who have already gained experience and a valuable insight into social care, together with, understanding the cultures of Powys as a county, is a further benefit. This is of course, is great news for Powys as an authority.
 
"I would like to wish them all well in their studies and I am sure this cohort, will encourage many more staff to consider and follow in qualifying to become social workers, in the future, " added Cllr. Powell.
 
One member of staff who has reached a senior managerial position after earlier studying for the OU degree under the scheme is Rachel Williams, the council's Senior Manager - Mental Health & Disabilities.
 
She commented: "I'm really grateful to Powys County Council. I had two teenagers in university at the time and it wasn't feasible for me to take a career break to study but Powys gave me this opportunity. It was hard work balancing work, family and study commitments but gaining the degree really helped me in my career."
 
Next year, staff will again be invited to apply to study for the degree course.