Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust

We spoke to Melanie Lamb, Vocational Development Coordinator at Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, to find out how investing in apprenticeships from within is helping them build a more skilled, confident and committed workforce while keeping talented people in the organisation for the long term.

We asked Melanie...

How have apprenticeships supported workforce development, skills growth, or staff retention within your organisation?

Apprenticeships have strengthened our workforce by developing skills from within, helping staff gain the qualifications and confidence needed to progress. They’ve supported us in filling skills gaps, building a talent pipeline, and improving service quality. Investing in staff learning has also boosted morale and retention, as employees feel valued and are more likely to stay and grow with the organisation.

What motivated your organisation to offer apprenticeships, and why did you choose the University of Salford as your training provider?

Our organisation introduced apprenticeships to develop talent internally, address skills gaps, and create clear progression routes for staff. We chose the University of Salford for its strong reputation for high-quality, industry-focused programmes and its flexible, supportive training that aligns well with our workforce needs.

What are the key benefits apprenticeships bring to your organisation?

Apprenticeships provide our organisation with a reliable way to grow skilled talent internally, fill workforce gaps, and improve overall capability. They boost staff confidence, support progression, and help us retain motivated employees by investing in their development.

Based on your experience, would you recommend apprenticeships and the University of Salford to other organisations?

Yes, I would recommend apprenticeships and the University of Salford to other organisations.

What advice would you give to organisations considering apprenticeships for the first time?

Start by identifying your workforce needs to choose the right apprenticeship levels and pathways. Engage early with a quality training provider, and ensure you have the right support structures in place for learners. Most importantly, view apprenticeships as an investment. When well-supported, they deliver long-term benefits for both staff development and organisational growth.