Growing our own: training health care assistants in general practice: a partnership between higher education and primary care trusts

This paper describes the introduction of a Work Based Learning training programme designed for health care support workers in General Practice. It outlines the development of the programme and its’ introduction across a north London Workforce Confederation sector and emphasises the need for effective mentorship in facilitating work based learning. The process of academic accreditation at a level suitable for the role is discussed and the possibilities for future similar developments in health care support worker roles is identified. Lastly, the benefits of introducing this type of training is seen as contributing to the NHS as a whole and improving service provision, provided financial, physical and educational support is made available from PCTs.