Commitment 3 Make development packages available for non-medical consultants recognised by the Centre for Advancing Practice

Multi-professional consultant pathway development

This is a pilot programme that is bespoke to each individual informed by a development needs analysis and development pathway so that they achieve the appropriate capabilities in the Multi-Professional Consultant-Level Practice Capability and Impact Framework. ( Manley & Crouch, 2021) 

The multi-professional consultant development pathway aims to develop consultants as system leaders and embedded researchers, exemplifying expert practice, strategic and enabling leadership, learning, developing, and improving across the system, and research and innovation. The programme improves care coordination and support for individuals with complex or multiple health conditions thus supporting the delivery of safe and effective services.

There are several core elements to support individuals on their journey to becoming a consultant level practitioner in learning disability and/or autism including:

• Virtual network for advanced practice in learning disability and autism (multi professional)
• a foundation in systems leadership e-programme
• action learning sets
• access to critical companions

Key to this programme is the commitment of the aspiring consultant’s employer to establish a consultant post in learning disabilities and/or autism working at a strategic level and enabling leadership level across an integrated care system or provider network in learning disability or autism services on successful completion of the development plan. The support of the Integrated Care Board is required for each application. The pathway is therefore based on developing and implementing the multi professional consultant role in learning disabilities and/or autism at a strategic level to achieve improvements in care and support and help to ensure the key areas of Building the Right Support are implemented. 

The programme also supports the retention of highly valued and skilled staff by strengthening opportunities for career development in clinical roles and facilitates workforce transformation.

Who is eligible?

This offer is available to senior registered health professionals which include nurses, allied health professionals e.g. occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, dieticians and physiotherapists, or other registered professionals that meet the criteria.

Individuals should be experienced practitioners who hold either a MSc or have equivalent knowledge and skills.

There were 10 funded places on the programme for 2022/2024

A further 10 funded places has been made available for 2023-2025.

For further details of the programme please contact learning.disability@hee.nhs.uk

New virtual network for advancing practice in learning disability and/or autism (multi professional)

A new network pilot for advanced practitioners and consultants in learning disability and autism (including those aspiring to be or in training) has been launched. The pilot will enable its members to connect, work together to find solutions and share best practice.

The virtual network will provide:

•  A forum for knowledge translation between strategic decision makers and practitioners for the benefit of people who access services for their learning disability and/or autism needs. 
• An opportunity to influence the development of advanced practice roles and existing practitioners in learning disability and/or autism across existing and emerging settings.
• A space for existing learning disability and/or autism practitioners to consider ways to support the educational development of the future workforce. 
• A forum where members can go to get advice, peer support and to share best practice. Virtual events are also being planned alongside the 24/7 community platform.

To become a member, please complete the virtual network registration form.