Champion Programme: New Application Process & Updates
Champion Programme: New Application Process & Updates
We’re excited to share some important updates to how the HCPA Champion Programme is accessed and delivered. These changes are designed to provide a more structured and supportive experience for both Champions and their managers.
New Application Process – Now Manager-Led
While the structure and content of our four-day Champion courses remain the same, nominations must now be submitted by a manager using our new online application form.
The application process ensures that each Champion is fully supported in their role, and that expectations are clear from the start.
How it works:
- Managers complete a short online application form to nominate a staff member for a Champion course.
- Each application is reviewed by the HCPA Education and Admin teams to ensure the candidate is a good fit.
- If approved, the manager receives a confirmation email with booking links to available course dates.
- The manager then books the staff member onto their chosen cohort.
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What is an HCPA Champion?
An HCPA Champion is a member of staff who takes on a leadership role in a specific area of practice—such as Dementia, Safeguarding, Infection Prevention and Control, and more—with the aim of improving care quality within their service. Champions complete a structured four-day course that equips them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to lead change, support colleagues, and embed best practice. They act as role models in their setting, helping to drive improvements, influence service delivery, and maintain high standards through ongoing development and revalidation.
Champion Role and Responsibilities
Champions play a key role in driving service improvements in their chosen specialist area. Their responsibilities include:
- Attend all four days of the Champion course in full.
- Work with their manager before starting the course to begin forming an initial action plan.
- Create and finalise a meaningful action plan during the programme, focusing on practical improvements they can lead within their service.
- Implement a governance process and use tools provided to lead changes in their topic area.
- Track their CPD and progress continuously to prepare for revalidation.
- Complete revalidation every two years, which includes:
- Reflecting on their action plan and outcomes
- Submitting a case study
- Providing a CPD log and a new plan for the next two years
Manager Role and Responsibilities
Managers are essential to the success of the Champion Programme. Their responsibilities include:
- Submit an online application form to nominate a staff member for a Champion course (can submit multiple forms for different candidates and topics).
- Book the nominated staff member onto the course once the application is approved.
- Support the Champion before, during, and after the course:
- Discuss initial ideas to help shape the action plan.
- Provide ongoing support as the Champion works on implementing their plan over 12–18 months.
- Encourage CPD tracking to support a smooth revalidation process.
- Stay informed about the structure and expectations of the programme to support their Champion effectively.
You can submit the form multiple times to nominate different staff across multiple Champion subjects.
Get in touch
Send us a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can, or you can give us a call on 01707 536020