Applications open for the AHPs Careers Fellowship Scheme cohort 8

Applications open for the AHPs Careers Fellowship Scheme cohort 8

Applications are now open for the eighth cohort of the allied health professions (AHP) Careers Fellowship Scheme – a multi-professional development opportunity for AHPs, AHP healthcare support workers and assistant practitioners across Scotland’s health and social care sectors.

The Fellowship enables participants to dedicate up to one day per week to: 

• take part in a structured learning programme delivered by NES expert facilitators
• lead and deliver a work-based project over 10 to 12 months to improve or develop AHP services; projects can be local (team, service, organisation region) or national in scope

The scheme supports career growth across the four pillars of practice and is open to project proposals that align with local or national priority while offering a clear development opportunity for the applicant.

Each year, Fellows contribute to advancing Scotland’s health and social ambitions. This year, we’re particularly interested in project ideas that explore:  

1. Innovations for sustainability or increasing service capacity, with a focus on prevention and early detection.    
2. Strengthening cross-sector partnerships to promote equitable access to person-led, community-based services.
3. Empowering individuals who face barriers to participation to access employment or engage in meaningful activities that enhance wellbeing, independence, and personal resilience.

Key Dates

• Application deadline: 12 noon, 22 October 2025
• Review panel meeting: 27 November 2025

If you're new to the Fellowship, our interactive Sway offers a helpful introduction. It includes guidance to the application process, project ideas, and links to online information sessions.

Hear from past fellows

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my Fellowship experience. I wasn't sure what to expect initially but can honestly say that I have achieved things I never thought possible and have found ways to develop in my career that I wouldn't have previously considered. I am genuinely sad that it has now come to an end but also excited to see what being an Alumni will bring!"

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the career fellowship programme, it has been a huge learning curve for me, but it has had a profound effect on my NHS career aspirations. I would encourage any Healthcare Support Worker to step out of your comfort zone you will be surprised what you can bring to the cohort and the learning you will gain!"

“The Career Fellowship provided me with great resources for taking my project forward.  It helped me lead … and gave me the confidence to see it through.” 

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