Building Skills, Confidence and Careers in Adult Health and Social Care in Devon
August 14, 2026
Sarah Gibbs
10 min read

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A skilled, confident and compassionate workforce is essential to delivering high-quality care. However, recruiting the right people, retaining experienced staff and developing future leaders remain significant challenges for many health and social care employers.
With more than 20 years of collective experience in the sector, we understand the realities of delivering care. We have supported employers and employees through health and social care apprenticeships, helping individuals gain recognised qualifications while applying their learning directly within the workplace.
Whether you are recruiting new staff, developing existing team members or planning for future leadership and succession, we can help you identify the right apprenticeship route.
A clear route for career progression
Our adult care apprenticeships support employees at different stages of their careers:
Level 2 Adult Care Worker
An ideal starting point for employees beginning or developing their careers in adult care. The programme builds essential knowledge and practical skills in areas including person-centred care, safeguarding, communication, duty of care, health and wellbeing, equality and inclusion, and professional development.
The programme typically takes around 12 months, followed by an end-point assessment period.
Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker
Designed for experienced care workers who take greater responsibility within their role and may support or guide others. The apprenticeship develops knowledge of complex care, leadership, safeguarding, risk management, communication and promoting individuals’ independence and wellbeing.
The training period typically takes around 18 months, followed by end-point assessment.
Level 5 Leader in Adult Care
This higher-level programme is designed for managers and aspiring leaders who are responsible for leading services and teams. It supports the development of effective leadership, governance, safeguarding, regulatory compliance, workforce management, continuous improvement and high-quality person-centred care.
It typically takes around 18 months, excluding the end-point assessment period, and includes the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care.
Supporting recruitment and staff development
Apprenticeships are not only for new recruits or school leavers. They can also be used to upskill existing employees, recognise their contribution and provide a structured pathway to greater responsibility.
Depending on the apprentice’s age and the employer’s circumstances, government funding may cover some or all of the training costs. Eligible apprentices aged 16–24 can be fully funded, and additional employer incentives may also be available in certain circumstances.
We make the process straightforward
You do not need to understand every aspect of apprenticeship funding before speaking to us. We can explain the available options, check potential eligibility and help you choose the most appropriate programme for each employee.
From initial advice and enrolment through to workplace training and end-point assessment preparation, we work closely with both the employer and apprentice. Our approach is flexible, supportive and designed to fit around the operational demands of a busy care setting.
Whether you simply want to understand your options or you are ready to recruit, upskill your team or develop your future leaders, contact us for a friendly, no-obligation conversation.
Let us help you invest in your people, strengthen your service and create meaningful career pathways within adult health and social care.
Contact us info@swatpro.org.uk
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