A NEW initiative is set to give extra impetus to the skill sets of health and social care workers across Greater Manchester.

Combined authority chiefs have established a multi-million-pound bespoke training programme which they say will "plug skills gaps" across the sectors.

Fully funded courses will be made available as part of the scheme, with training designed in partnership with employers.

An estimated 2,600-plus health and social care workers in the city region could benefit.

Acorn Training will be taking forward the £3m programme, which is being delivered through the three-year Skills for Growth programme, backed by European Social Funding.

Four key themes will be covered - technical training for support staff, developing leadership and management skills, recruiting more practice assessors and higher level apprenticeships.

Cllr Andrew Western, GMCA digital and skills lead, said: "Investing in skills development and training in our workforce helps ensure staff are properly supported and employers have the staff they need. That is why this announcement is an exciting development for our health and social care sector.

“Following engagement with the wider health and social care industry, the prospect of increased retirements in the coming years has led to concerns of skills gaps in the workforce.

“By bringing Acorn Training on board, we want to prepare the existing workforce for change and give them the learning they need to move up the career ladder, helping them to reach their ambitions and achieve their goals.

Seven other providers will be involved - the Growth Company, Abuka, Rochdale Training, Training Works 4 U, Ashley Hunter and Access Skills.