Impact & Feedback

Carol Reid Oak Vale Medical Centre
May 2021

“We have been working with Jules Westbrook of DH Associates for a number of years and I would just like to let you know of a couple of really inspiring stories regarding a number of receptionists that we originally took on as apprentices and to also highlight how individuals can progress onto other areas when given the opportunity to do so. They gained new knowledge, skills and definitely the right behaviours, all learnt via the apprenticeship programme.

We recruited via the National apprenticeship service and with DHA support of their trainers and business development team, we firstly recruited our current Reception Supervisor, she has been our supervisor for almost 2 years now. Due to a change in workforce recently we have just created a new role of Deputy Supervisor to support the Reception Supervisor’s role. In addition, one of our other receptionists has been earmarked to do Health Care Assistant (HCA) training and will eventually be doing a dual role of reception and HCA. All 3 started off as apprentices and we are thrilled that we are able to demonstrate why doing an apprenticeship can be very rewarding for both the practice and the individual concerned.

When opportunities arise it can give them a progression route within General Practice, and the wider NHS if they wish, that they might not have otherwise had.

We are fully committed to the apprenticeship programme; it works for all concerned and we hope to continue to enjoy the strong relationship we have developed over the years with yourselves.”

Georgina Fisher Bedspace
March 2021

“The funding arena is not easy to understand, however I was in good hands with Jules Westbrook at DHA.

We have a great relationship and have a monthly meeting and it is a pleasure to work with a training provider who is committed. Jules introduced me to Ange Roberts who manages the tutors and qualifications. Ange does an amazing job and works closely with both myself and Jules. Nothing is too much trouble, and both always respond to my emails and phone calls. Tom from the admin team is always helpful and friendly and at times has had patience of a saint guiding me through some of the process through the DAS account and updating learner’s information as part of a cohort. Apprenticeships are key to our business growing and developing.”

Feedback from learners: I have recently received a new tutor and she is amazing; she has already set new targets and action plan. We have completed professional discussions; my work is uploaded quickly, and feedback is given in a timely manner.

I have recently started the qualification and my tutor is supportive setting realistic targets. She has explained everything to me of what is required and I am looking forward to my learning journey.”

Ian Raine Cambian Group
March 2021

“I have just had our regular monthly meeting and would like to comment that I find them really useful.

It is really refreshing that the team at DH Associates are keeping me informed of the progress of my learners. Today we were able to discuss a learner that is struggling which allows me to put corrective actions in place.

The communication with DH is first class and regular meetings and emails are enhancing my knowledge and progress of the learners and ensuring they are all supported through the programs they are completing.

Lastly I am appreciative of the potential for my ‘high flyer’s to push ono Lead to Succeed Program which has the potential to enhance the practice of my ‘future managers’

Overall a big thanks for great communication and inclusion. I am sure together we will get our staff well trained and progressing their knowledge and skills within their roles.”

Dennise Springett Cambian Group
March 2021

“These meetings are well planned in advance, I feel that they are structured and well organised.

I obtain all the information I require from these meetings, as a regional manager I don’t get to discuss with all individuals on how they are getting on with their qualifications, these meetings gives me an insight on where they are at in terms of timescales and performance, from gaining this information through these monthly meetings I can then address any issues or concerns directly with the home managers or even meet with the staff individually, we can then support where required.”

Sue Fitzsimmons Cambian Group
March 2021

“The monthly catch ups serve a purpose – they are focused and allow me the opportunity to RAG the homes and also follow through on any action plans that the managers have implemented.

The detail of the monthly catch up sessions are then followed up in individual homes managers supervisions , allowing a proactive response and a triangulated approach to staff development.

Within the Yorkshire region we are seeing progression and we are now hoping that this sets the scene for development over the next few months.”

Shelagh Elman Adult Care Worker L2
December 2020

“Just wanted to say how fantastic and supportive Martine has been. She is very patient, understanding and explains things in a very easy way. She is a pleasure to speak with.”

Jan Stephenson Homecare Mellor
December 2020

“We have used other providers in the past, since using your company and having Dawn Gouldthorpe as the assessor the quality of support and guidance from her to our workforce has been outstanding she thrives to get the best out of each learner and is highly knowledgeable in her field. This also has a good impact on our organisation due to the cohort sharing and improving not just their own knowledge but also of other that they work with.

Jules Westbrook the business manager keeps our organisation up today with any changes to funding and very supportive to the business. Like Dawn she is very friendly approachable, and nothing is too much trouble.

The process from the start to the end is hassle free. I would have no hesitation in recommend DH associates for anyone looking to improve the standard of their workforce.”

Christine McPartland Independent Options
November 2020

“Good afternoon Jules, I want to thank you for all the hard work and patience you have had with me to help me get set up with the Modern Apprenticeship training and funding. I could not have done this without your help and support. Independent Option would not be able to offer this kind of training to staff and in the past I have found it very hard to access funding, so your help and support has been very much appreciated.

Not only have you been helpful but your patience in guiding me through the process has been outstanding. I never thought we could get the amount of money that we have been offered. It’s amazing!

So once again…thanks..I can’t stop smiling today”

Elaine Community Supported Living
November 2020

“I just wanted to write to you to express my gratitude to you for allowing me to continue with the course. You listened to me and you gave me an opportunity to complete my learning and I can’t explain how happy I am with your organisation.

Dawn Gouldthorpe is my trainer and she is absolutely brilliant she has supported me thoroughly and helped me to learn and develop into a confident and excellent support worker and mentor, with her continued support and motivation I have excelled. “

Shazia Begum – Freedom Care & Support – November 2020

“During Covid 19 pandemic, DHA have continued to adapt their ways of working, ensuring that they can support our members of staff during this period. DHA have continued to deliver fantastic teaching ensuring that staff are continuing to learn and work towards their goals. Thank you”

Tristan Thomas Community Union
November 2020

“I am writing to thank DH Associates for supporting community’s team of young adult apprentices in achieving their Business Administration Level 3 standard.

Our apprentices are now entering traineeships and will be working towards specialist qualifications with digital & marketing and project management. I would be appreciative if arrangements could be made to have all certificates sent to Community Head Office, marked for my attention, so that we can arrange an award ceremony in recognition of their good work.

In addition, on behalf of the General Secretary, the Senior Leadership Team, Alexandra, Daniel and Declan I would like to specifically thank Trainer, Vicky Lawrence for her steadfast commitment and support given in working with our apprentices.

We hope to work with you again in the future.”