HCA Training and Development Bursary Launched
For the first time in the history of our Association, the HCA is setting aside several thousand pounds annually to support a Training and Development Bursary for Members of the Association.
The money will help caterers with their professional development, and consequently, further the aims and objectives of the HCA. Each year Full Members will be entitled to apply for a grant to help them pay for a range of activities which will support them in furthering their careers and ultimately help to improve the standards of catering in hospitals and healthcare establishments in the UK.
In the first year £5,200 is being made available for 21 awards in five categories. These range from the provision of funding for attendance at relevant conferences, to help study for a recognised external qualification or to assist with work placements or exchange either in the UK or overseas. Grants are also available for books, software or subscriptions.
In addition to the HCA Bursary, Burlodge UK, a leading supplier of equipment for the regeneration and distribution of meals in hospitals and other institutions, has also established an Educational Bursary for the HCA. It will support the attendance of two Members on the NHS Estates Facilities Management Training and Development Programme.
Sandra Roberts, HCA National Secretary, says, “The intention of the HCA Training and Development Bursary is to try to give back something to our Members by assisting them with their professional development. The funds for the first Bursary have come from the proceeds of our 2006 National Conference and from now on our Conference Committees will be tasked with delivering the money to enable the funding of the HCA Bursary on an annual basis.
“The on-going availability of the Bursary will very much depend on take up, so it’s vital that Members put themselves forward for these awards.”
Sandra adds, “We’re delighted that Burlodge has also come forward to boost the grants available to our Members. Their help will allow more people to further their careers through the various training and development opportunities that exist within the industry, but for which NHS funding may not be readily available.”
All applications for the 2007 Bursary must be made to the Chair of the General Purposes Committee, Mr Neil Watson-Jones, by 30th March 2007.
Mr Neil Watson-Jones Catering Manager Alexandra Hospital Woodrow Drive Redditch Worcs B98 7UB| Bursary | Number of awards available | Maximum Allowance per application | Qualifying Period (membership) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conference Attendance Allowance e.g. HCA, BDA, NACC, LACA, HeFMA |
2 | 100 per cent funding to a maximum of £500 |
2 years |
| UK Placement Fund Up to a five day work placement/exchange To include travel and accommodation |
4 | £350 | 2 years |
| Overseas Placement Up to a five day work placement/exchange |
1 | £700 | 3 years |
| Qualification Fund For a recognised external qualification |
4 | 50 per cent funding to a maximum of £400 |
2 years |
| Book Grant/Software/Subscription Allowance Applications from individuals or by Branch |
10 | £50 | 1 year |
| 21 awards | Maximum total £5,200 | ||
| In addition to the HCA Awards, Burlodge UK are supporting the following: | |||
| Burlodge UK Training/Development Bursary Attendance on the NHS Estates Facilities Management Training and Development Programme (Please note that the normal application process for this course will apply) |
2 | £750 | 2 years |
