We recently caught up with Rose, a care manager at Magic Helping Hands, to learn more about how the Nightingale Bursary has helped her team access fully funded training in health and social care and develop their skills and confidence in the workplace. Find out what she has to say below:
What is your position within the organisation, and how important is it for your staff to receive ongoing professional development opportunities?
I am an active care manager moving to a registered manager.
Ongoing professional development is absolutely vital for our staff. In such a dynamic and evolving sector, it ensures they remain equipped with the latest knowledge, skills, and practices to deliver high-quality care. It also fosters confidence, enhances job satisfaction, and motivates our team to continuously improve their performance.
From a broader perspective, professional development benefits not only individual staff members but also the organisation as a whole. It helps maintain compliance with regulatory standards, improves client outcomes, and supports career progression, which is essential for staff retention in a competitive industry.
We prioritise creating pathways for training and development, whether through certifications, hands-on workshops, or advanced qualifications, to ensure our team is both competent and fulfilled in their roles.
Please tell us a bit more about your organisation.
We mainly provide domiciliary care but also end of life and support client SEND and since last year complex packages, for example Huntingdon’s disease.
Since 2019, Magic Helping Hands has grown to support 100 active care assistants, a milestone achieved through a clear vision and dedication. The journey began with the registered manager Yema, who started as a care assistant and developed a deep passion for the industry and its impact.
Our organisation has experienced significant growth since last year, now covering three areas, expanding into additional counties, and extending our operations into London. Looking ahead, we are moving towards offering supported living services and have an ambitious 5 – 10 year plan to establish a care home, further broadening the scope of our care provision.
The name ‘Magic Helping Hands’ reflects our ethos—providing care as though it were for our own loved ones, sharing a touch of magic with every person we support.
Which courses have your staff completed or are currently completing and how has your experience been with ACL?
4 members of staff are completing or have completed courses, plus one other will be starting soon.
The feedback has been outstanding, highlighting excellent communication with the assessor. Regular meetings are held to provide support and address any challenges. Assessors encourage managers to offer guidance and share helpful resources, including relevant links to access information. Rather than simply providing answers, they focus on teaching staff how to independently find solutions, fostering problem-solving skills and confidence. “Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day, teach him how to fish and he will never starve again”.
What do your staff enjoy about working in Health & Social Care sector?
Most of the time the feedback is that this is the industry the found themselves growing in and they would like to develop their skills. They love the interaction with other human beings and learning from their experiences.
What does your organisation hope to achieve by staff completing training at ACL?
A Diploma in Health and Social Care (HSC) provides individuals with comprehensive skills and knowledge, which are invaluable in the care sector. I firmly believe that pursuing this qualification not only enhances personal growth but also contributes significantly to the organisation by improving service quality and strengthening our professional reputation.
From an organisational perspective, having staff with HSC qualifications supports retention, as it opens pathways for career progression, such as advancing to senior care assistant or deputy manager roles. Additionally, obtaining this qualification can lead to a well-deserved pay raise, recognising the value of their expertise and dedication.
Investing in such qualifications fosters individual development while simultaneously driving the growth and success of the company as a whole.
How has the people you care for, and their families benefited from the training that your staff have received through the Nightingale Bursary?
I do believe a client will recognise from the beginning when you have an experienced care assistant in front you that has experience and qualification.
A person that has completed qualification will have good information and knowledge and putting in practice and receive 99% positive feedback. An example was that a family sent a card after family member passed away. The family member was cared for by someone that has trained with ACL, and they went above and beyond working with the family.
What would you say to anyone thinking about starting a career the health and social care sector?
Go for it! Most rewarding job that someone can have or do. Starting a career in the Health and Social Care (H&SC) sector is incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. It offers the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives, whether by providing direct care, supporting families, or contributing to the overall well-being of those in need.
The sector is diverse, with numerous career paths ranging from frontline care roles to management and specialist positions. It’s a field that values empathy, compassion, and dedication, and there are always opportunities for growth and development, whether through training, qualifications, or gaining new skills on the job.
I would encourage anyone considering a career in H&SC to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn. It’s a sector that requires commitment, but it offers a chance to grow as a person, build meaningful relationships, and truly make an impact in the community. It’s a career where you can be proud of the work you do every day.
How has Nightingale Health & Social Care Bursary benefited your organisation?
ACL offers significant benefits as it is free of charge, and there is no requirement to contribute or incur a student loan that would need to be repaid in the future. This is a huge advantage for staff, especially in terms of financial flexibility.
From a job security perspective, a qualification provides stability. In a competitive job market, some companies prefer to hire trained care assistants, and without a qualification, it may feel like starting from scratch. A qualification not only offers reassurance but also provides peace of mind for employees, knowing that they have the credentials needed to secure a role.
From the client’s perspective, having staff with qualifications adds a layer of trust and confidence. When clients ask about staff qualifications, being able to confirm that care assistants and nurses have the relevant certifications helps reassure families that their loved ones are in good hands. It also enhances the professional worth of the staff member, who is recognised for their skills and expertise, compared to those who may have started without any formal training.
Ultimately, while guidance and support from managers are necessary for growth, qualifications also play a critical role in the growth of the business itself. They not only improve service quality but also help in staff retention, as employees feel valued and empowered through the professional development they gain.
What would say to other health and social care organisations that are thinking about using the Nightingale Bursary/ACL?
I would definitely recommend it. The enrolment process is incredibly smooth, and there is always someone available to guide you through each step. You’ll have a dedicated person supporting you throughout the journey, ensuring you never feel alone. If any challenges arise, they work closely with your manager to provide the necessary feedback and assistance. The customer service is outstanding, and the skills and support provided are truly exceptional. It’s an amazing experience that I highly recommend to anyone looking to further their career.
If you are an employer and would like to learn more about the Nightingale Care Bursary and courses on offer to support your team, please click here.
If you are not an employer and are interested in learning more for your own development, please click here.
