Applications for the WBOP Workforce Development Fund – Round Two will open from the 1st of February to the 10th of March 2025. This funding supports kaimahi in the primary and community healthcare sectors who are seeking further education, skill development, or additional support to advance their careers.
HOW THE FUND CAN HELP
Support from the WBOP Health Workforce Development Fund is available for a wide range of opportunities:
➡️ Postgraduate Study: Financial assistance for health-related postgraduate courses to enhance expertise and skill sets.
➡️ Additional Training: Funding for vocational training courses in health, enabling professionals to develop their qualifications.
➡️ Mentoring: Support for mentoring relationships that contribute to leadership development and career progression.
➡️ Awhi and Support: Assistance with leadership development, sustainability, and ongoing career growth within healthcare roles.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To apply for Round Two of the WBOP Health Workforce Development Fund, applicants must:
➡️ Be employed within the primary or community healthcare sector.
➡️ Be a New Zealand citizen or resident.
➡️ Meet the entry criteria set by the training provider for their chosen course or programme.
➡️ Preference will be given to those working in allied health roles integrated into primary and community care.
HOW TO APPLY
You can apply online through the Workforce Development Fund application link, which will be available here in January. You can include a video with your application to support it or as your complete submission. Upload your video directly through the application form or share it with us using a YouTube link.
We offer application support in person or online. Details about this will be included in the application link when it goes live.
If you have any questions in the meantime, send us an email—we’re here to help! workforce@wboppho.org.nz.
Supporting primary and community healthcare
The WBOP Health Workforce Development Fund is part of Te Whatu Ora’s wider initiative to empower local healthcare providers through workforce development. This funding aligns with the interim New Zealand Health Plan (Te Pae Tata), which aims to strengthen the primary and community health workforce.
In the Western Bay of Plenty, WBOP PHO manages the funding for primary and community care settings. A similar initiative for Hauora Māori providers is led by the Poutiri Wellness Centre.
The impact of round one
In the first round of the Workforce Development Fund for the Western Bay of Plenty, which closed in October 2024, 26 people submitted applications, and 18 received support. The selection process focused on identifying applicants with the potential to drive meaningful change in their communities and improve health outcomes for whānau. Recipients have shared how the funding will make a difference for them.
“This opportunity allows me to re-enrol in my studies and eases the financial strain on my boys. I am very grateful to have been selected.”
“I am thrilled to begin my nursing journey. With over 10 years of experience in healthcare, I can’t wait to take this next step.”
LOOKING AHEAD
A third round of the WBOP Health Workforce Development Fund is planned for later in 2025.
