What is SWAP?

SWAP is a training and support programme designed to help people into jobs and start a new career in Somerset NHS Foundation Trust and across health and social care.

Our free training programme provides the introductory skills and knowledge needed to explore opportunities within Somerset NHS Foundation Trust and across health and social care in Somerset.

The programme

The programme is delivered over 4 weeks through a mix of online and face-to-face sessions.

You will need to commit to:

  • 5 days in week 1 on Microsoft Teams
  • 5 days in week 2 on Microsoft Teams
  • 2 days in week 3 with face to face site training and an hour session on Microsoft Teams with our Work Development Team
  • 1 hour in week 4 for an on-site suitability interview.

The Microsoft Teams sessions are carried out remotely online with your college tutor.

Depending on the pathway you choose, you will gain either a Level 1 Gateway Certificate in Health and Care or a Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Business Administration.

When you complete the programme, including all workshops and assignments, you will be offered a guaranteed interview for a suitable role. This could lead to a job within Somerset NHS Foundation Trust.

You will also receive support from our Workforce Development Team, including:

  • a meeting to discuss your career goals
  • a 2-day face-to-face Employability Skills Workshop.

Ongoing support

Throughout the programme, our Workforce Development Team will support you.

We will get to know your goals and help you find the best path for you. We can offer advice, guidance and encouragement every step of the way.

Who is eligible?

SWAP is available to everyone who is:

  • aged 19 or over
  • earning less than £25,750 a year before tax, or are currently unemployed
  • looking for a new career or a change in career
  • made redundant or are at risk of redundancy.

You do not need any formal qualifications. You just need:

  • a positive attitude and willingness to learn
  • good spoken and written English skills
  • access to a laptop or computer with a camera and an internet connection.

With over 350 different jobs within the NHS there really is something to suit everyone.

Opportunities

Everyone who successfully completes the programme will be offered a guaranteed suitability interview.

We can also support you with:

  • finding suitable job opportunities
  • completing application forms
  • interview preparation
  • career advice and guidance
  • employability support
  • work experience opportunities
  • volunteering opportunities

Feedback from candidates who have completed the SWAP

The trainer did exceedingly well. I enjoyed every part of the training.

I have found it useful as I have learnt a lot about different career paths within the NHS.

Yes, this experience has helped me understand the interview experience and has made me want to go and volunteer.

Claire’s Journey: From Bank HCA to Future Registered Nurse

Claire’s NHS journey is a fantastic example of what determination, kindness and the right support can achieve.

Before joining the Trust, Claire worked as a SWASFT Emergency Care Assistant, an administrator in a medical centre, and briefly in pharmacy and health and beauty – always gravitating toward roles that helped people.

In June 2022 Claire applied for a bank HCA role, and by September she had secured a permanent position.

Working across different wards gave Claire valuable experience, but soon realised she wanted consistency, continuity, and a team she could grow with.

Exploring her options, Claire discovered the Sector-Based Work Academy Programme delivered by Weston College in partnership with our Somerset Foundation Trust Workforce Development Team. Claire completed the 3-week training, which she said really helped her to build confidence and develop essential skills.

The team supported Claire through the recruitment process, helping her explore what she wanted from her role — from shift patterns and ward environments to whether community or acute care suited her best. Their guidance helped her take the next step with confidence.

Claire is now progressing through her Nursing Associate training. Claire has received support from our student nursing placement team of facilitators to complete her nursing degree with UCS, putting her firmly on the path to becoming a registered nurse.

For Claire, caring comes naturally. She says you “either want to do it or you don’t,” and she can’t imagine herself in any other career. Claire believes in working hard, staying kind, and never stopping learning — values that shine through in everything she does.

Claire is grateful for the opportunities provided for her, and the teams who have supported her.

Claire’s journey highlights the power of enthusiasm, motivation, perseverance, and the difference that the right support and guidance can make. She has created a clear pathway into Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, where we’re confident she will continue to thrive, grow, and flourish in her development- ultimately achieving her goal of becoming a Registered Nurse.