A new training programme is set to develop adult social care leadership in Cornwall, giving care workers the chance to build confidence, practical skills and leadership behaviours earlier in their careers.
The Future Care Leader Programme, commissioned by Proud to Care Cornwall, has been developed to support care workers at the very start of their leadership journey. It aims to create a clear, accessible pathway towards senior roles including Registered Manager positions, while strengthening the foundations of Cornwall’s adult social care workforce.
Cornwall Council’s Cabinet Lead for Adult Social Care and Health Partnership, Cllr Jim Mckenna, said strong leadership is one of the most important factors influencing wellbeing, retention and quality of care across the sector.
“Strong leadership is one of the biggest challenges factors influencing care workers’ wellbeing, retention, quality of care and organisational performance,” he said. “We are committed to developing and supporting our care workers and to attracting and retaining a workforce that reflects the community we serve.”
The programme forms part of Cornwall’s wider care workforce strategy, which focuses on helping people experience good work, deliver excellent social care and feel recognised and valued for their contribution.
Following a competitive commissioning process, Diagram Learning Studio was appointed to design and deliver the programme. Their approach blends digital learning with immersive, scenario-based experience that mirrors the real challenges faced in care settings.
Chad and Vicky from Diagram Learning Studio said the programme is rooted in practical, hands-on development:
“We believe leadership is best developed through practice. That’s why our learning uses realistic scenarios, giving people a safe environment to explore challenges, discuss different perspectives and learn alongside their peers.”
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Cllr McKenna added that the programme has been intentionally shaped around the realities of adult social care work: “Care workers are often shift workers, balancing competing demands with limited time for formal learning. Rather than relying on lengthy classroom sessions, participants learn through immersive situations based on leadership challenges they are likely to encounter in a care setting.”
The training has been co-developed with people already working in Cornwall’s adult social care sector. Experienced leaders helped shape the content, scenarios and learning experience to ensure the programme reflects real challenges, local needs, and genuine opportunities for progression.
The focus is on those early in their leadership journey, rather than established managers, giving new and aspiring leaders the chance to grow with confidence.
Applications for the first cohort are expected to open around November 2026. Full details on eligibility, cohort dates and how to apply will be shared through Proud to Care Cornwall’s communication channels.
For anyone considering a career in care, or looking to take the next step, more information is available on the Proud to Care Cornwall website.
Cornwall Care Leader Programme Supports Workers Early in Careers