What is Preceptorship?
What is Preceptorship?
Who is this guidance for?
All grades of the AHP workforce require tailored structured support when going through a period of career transition. This is known as Preceptorship.
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) defines preceptorship as ‘a period of structured support provided to HCPC registrants at key moments of career transition.’3 (p.3)
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Preceptorship has been recognised as a key strategy to support AHP recruitment, integration, and retention, directly contributing to the Scottish Government’s National Workforce Strategy vision of a ‘sustainable, skilled workforce with attractive career choices where all are respected and valued for the work they do.’2 (p.2) |
AHPs and support staff go through several transitions throughout their careers, this includes joining the workforce for the first time, returning to work after a long absence, moving to a new organisation including from overseas or transitioning into a new role.
Preceptorship is structured support during these career transitions, benefiting staff, service users and the wider organisation. Preceptorship is not designed to replace existing support structures for example, induction, supervision or appraisal, but to enhance these structures offering specific support for a designated length of time. This time frame is variable depending on the individual role requirements and development needs.
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It improves confidence and develops leadership skills. Service users benefit from staff who are engaged and confident in their role, and the organisation benefits by promoting a culture of support and having staff that feel valued in their job. |
Who is this guidance aimed for?
This guidance is designed to be inclusive and relevant for all AHPs and HCSWs across all levels of practice and partner organisations including AHP support workers in Social Care. Whilst HCSW staff are not registered by the HCPC, they work under the direction and supervision of registered professionals and adhere to the Scottish Government HCSW Code of Conduct 1. Some AHP Support workers employed in social care settings, such as care at home, housing support or care home services may be registered with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).
Although the guidance is underpinned by the HCPC preceptorship principles, it is intentionally designed to be inclusive of HCSWs, recognising their vital role within AHP teams. HCSWs are an integral part of many AHP teams, and it is intended that the guidance outlined in this statement should also extend to non-registered individuals and SSSC registered support staff.
What is Preceptorship?
Who is this guidance for?