The PRE-registration podiatry: Accessible recruitment and employment (PREPARE) project: A commentary on the novel approach to the podiatry workforce crisis in Glasgow.

The profession of podiatry is facing significant workforce challenges and urgent solutions are required to increase workforce capacity. Apprenticeship models are available in England but as yet, not available in Scotland. This paper explores the local context of the current workforce challenges and summarises a novel solution collaboratively developed in Glasgow. A collaborative initiative between NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Glasgow Caledonian University developed the PRE-registration Podiatry: Accessible Recruitment and Employment (PREPARE) Project. Creative use of vacancy savings are being used to employ a limited number of individuals on a whole-time Band 5 Annex 21 basis at the start of their podiatry degree for the duration of their studies. Academic timetables were consolidated with no change to module or learning outcomes with candidates spending 3 days per week on academic studies and 2 days per week employed within the host podiatry service during term time. If academic milestones are achieved, substantive Band five opportunities are available once registration is achieved. This project opens opportunities for graduate level study to the support workforce and others not in a position to pursue traditional models of full-time education. To date, two additional health boards in Scotland have adopted this model and it has the potential to be a national approach for Scotland. High applicant numbers were achieved demonstrating increased interest in podiatry from this approach. This project has the potential to have a transformative impact on educating and training the future workforce, potentially being adopted by other professions facing similar workforce challenges.