Birmingham care provider celebrates National Apprenticeship Week by championing career development in social care

Macc Care, which operates 14 homes including Church Rose in Handsworth, Abbey Rose and Priestly Rose in Erdington, and Sutton Rose in Sutton, currently employs 30 staff who are working on apprenticeships, recently saw a further eight receive their qualifications and has an additional 25 studying diplomas via other routes.

And this week the care group has spoken out - keen to celebrate apprentices and also debunk the myth that apprenticeships are only for young people entering the workforce.

Claire Stokes, Training Manager at Macc Care, said: “There are many misconceptions about apprenticeships, they are often thought to be only for 16-18 year-olds or those out of work, but in reality, they are a valuable route for people of all ages looking to upskill or change career paths.

“The apprenticeship programme is a fantastic opportunity for individuals seeking an alternative to college or university. It allows them to earn while they learn, develop skills on the job, and progress within their chosen career. I myself started as an apprentice at 18, which helped me grow from a carer to senior carer, into management, and now into my current role as Training Manager.”

Many of Macc Care’s dedicated staff have also advanced their careers through apprenticeships, including Mae Ann Lacson, the home manager at Church Rose in Handworth, Birmingham. “I’ve been with Macc Care for eight years now,” said Mae. “When I was encouraged to do my Level 5 in Leadership and Management I was reluctant as I felt too old to do an apprenticeship. But it’s been key in my progression.

“As someone who began their career nursing internationally, it was crucial in understanding UK legislation. Here at Church Rose we have 16 different nationalities amongst our staff and apprenticeships are a fantastic route for all, whatever their background and pathway into care.”

Emma Collingwood from Dora Rose care home in Milford, Stafford, is on the verge of completing her Level 3 in Business Administration. “For me being in my 40s it felt very daunting to undertake an apprenticeship, but I will be really pleased and proud when it’s complete.”

Nikki Martin from Willow Rose care home, who became the first in the business to gain a Clinical Health Care Support Apprenticeship with Distinction. Nikki now works as a Clinical Health Assistant, demonstrating how apprenticeships can be a stepping stone to long-term career progression.

Currently staff are earning qualifications that span a diverse range of disciplines, including Catering, Lead Care Practitioner, Advanced Care Practitioner, Business Administration, Clinical Apprenticeships, Adult Care, and Team Leadership at varying levels.

Bhav Amlani, Director at Macc Care, added: “At Macc Care, we believe that investing in our people is investing in the future of social care. Apprenticeships provide a fantastic opportunity for individuals to build fulfilling careers while ensuring that we continue to provide exceptional, compassionate care. It’s inspiring to see so many of our team members thrive through this programme, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements during National Apprenticeship Week.”

Macc Care’s apprenticeship programme reflects its ongoing commitment to investing in its people, ensuring high-quality care for residents while providing career growth opportunities for its team.

For more information on apprenticeships at Macc Care, visit www.macccare.com