A CSP collaboration has led to the launch of a new digital education programme that gives dietitians access to digital and data knowledge and practical skills.
Funded by NHS England Digital Academy and by the CSP Charitable Trust, the CSP, in collaboration with Keele University, EL Healthcare Education, the BDA and other AHP professional bodies, has launched the Digital and Data Foundations education programme.
The programme has been fully funded so is free to access for the whole dietetic workforce, including students and dietetic support workers. Although hosted by the NHS England Digital Academy, access includes those working outside the NHS and in other parts of the UK.
Through interactive content, case studies from real AHPs and reflective activities, the programme provides a solid foundation of digital and data skills that can be applied in different teams, services or settings. Structured in modules and with bite-sized content, learners can access it in their own time around other work or studying commitments.
Prabha Vijayakumar, NHS England Chief AHP Information Officer said, "The training is designed so that it caters to the needs of the learner, not just one profession, one setting or one level of professional maturity. It is flexible and adaptable to the organisations and to the skills gaps of the learner.
"We want digital and data to be comfortable for AHPs at all levels. That will create digitally mature and data-enabled AHP services and ultimately, visible digital AHP leadership."
Liz Stockley, Chief Executive Officer of the BDA commented, "Developing robust digital competence across our allied health workforce is no longer optional - it’s essential.
"By equipping our dietitians and AHP colleagues with core skills in data literacy, digital tools and information governance, this new Digital and Data Foundations programme directly supports the BDA’s ambition to build a sustainable, professionally resilient workforce. Through this, we will enable better informed, data-driven nutritional care, help our members thrive in an evolving health environment and strengthen the visibility of dietetics as a modern digital profession."
After completing a short registration process, members can gain access to the Digital and Data Foundations education programme through the NHS Digital Academy.
