Scotland’s National Induction Framework Set to Transform Social Care Training 

Scotland’s National Induction Framework Set to Transform Social Care Training 

Scotland’s National Induction Framework for Social Care, developed by NES and the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC), is set to officially launch on 14 May 2025. This ground-breaking initiative aims to provide free, high-quality induction training for adult social care workers across Scotland, ensuring a consistent, efficient, and accessible learning experience.  

Addressing Key Challenges in Social Care Training 

Each year, 2,250 workers enter Scotland’s social care sector, with many transitioning between roles. Historically, employers faced significant training duplication, requiring staff to repeat learning despite prior experience. This inefficiency resulted in lost time and resources, delaying direct care delivery.  

The National Induction Framework streamlines onboarding by eliminating repetitive training, allowing workers to retain verified records of their learning. Accessible via Turas Learn, NES’ free education platform, the framework integrates with the SSSC My Learning App, ensuring employees can track progress and provide evidence of completed training when moving between roles. 

Developed in Collaboration with Social Care Experts 

The framework was designed through extensive stakeholder engagement, including ten consultation sessions and a Delphi survey to establish core learning outcomes. It aligns with National Occupational Standards and the Scottish Vocational Qualifications Framework, ensuring training meets legal and professional requirements.  

The project also involved collaboration with the Care Inspectorate and key social care agencies, reinforcing its credibility and practicality for employers across Scotland. 

Gordon Paterson, Director, Social Care Directorate at NHS Education said:  

"I am very pleased that the Social Care Directorate in NES has had the opportunity to work in partnership with the SSSC, and the wider social care sector in developing the National Induction Framework.  As well as being of benefit to both prospective and new recruits to social care, this important resource will aid providers in their efforts to address learning needs of the workforce. "

Successful Pilot Programme Confirms Impact 

A pilot programme, launched in January and February 2025, involved selected adult social care organisations across Scotland. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants rating the framework content as 4 out of 5 stars for usability and relevance. Learners praised the intuitive structure, while employers welcomed the streamlined induction process. 

Upcoming Launch and Future Plans 

Following its 14 May 2025 launch, the framework will be freely available to all social care workers and organisations in Scotland. NES and SSSC will work closely with employers to support implementation and gather ongoing feedback. Regular events will provide updates and facilitate further improvements. 

The National Induction Framework represents a major step forward in workforce development, promoting consistency, efficiency, and accessibility while ensuring that Scotland’s social care professionals receive high-quality, standardized induction training. 

Check out the National Induction Framework.

For inquiries, contact nes.nifenquiries@nhs.scot. 

---