AN apprenticeship programme which has been developed by the NHS, a local authority and a college has been launched.

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Hartlepool Borough Council and the Hartlepool College of Further Education launched its 'Integrated Health and Social Care' apprenticeship course at Hartlepool College on Monday.

The course, which focusses on developing each students' knowledge across a range of healthcare environments, aims to provide "better outcomes for residents across the region."

Julie Gillon, chief executive for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We cannot work in isolation, and our closest community partners are critical in delivering a more aspirant future for this region.

"Although our focus is obviously on health care, we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our education providers, our local councils and social care partners to ensure the best offer from public and private bodies is always at the forefront of our agendas."

Gary Wright, deputy director of workforce development for the NHS, said: "In January, the NHS published its ambitious ‘long term plan’ to facilitate a better health population for communities across England.

"We felt that our Trusts must work more collaboratively than ever before with community partners."