Training new HCAs to give compassionate care.

: In October 2013, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Foundation Trust set up an academy for all new healthcare assistants, to enable them to develop with the knowledge and skills to deliver compassionate and safe care. HCAs attend the academy before working in clinical practice. They complete knowledge packs in line with national minimum training standards during their probationary period. Evaluation showed that HCAs felt more confident to deliver clinical care after completing academy training.