Consanguinity workforce development programme

This project will deliver a culturally competent workforce development programme to equip frontline professionals, initially midwives and health visitors and later wider family support staff, with the knowledge and skills needed to support families affected by inherited genetic conditions associated with consanguinity. Through a programme of hybrid training sessions, e-learning resources and evaluation activities, the provider will improve awareness of genetic risk, enhance confidence in discussing sensitive issues with families, strengthen referral pathways to genetic and screening services, and promote informed decision-making, with the overall aim of improving access to support services, earlier identification of at-risk families and more equitable health outcomes.

The project will deliver a workforce development programme to improve frontline professionals' knowledge, confidence and cultural competence in supporting families affected by inherited genetic conditions associated with consanguinity. The programme aims to improve equity of access to genetic counselling, screening and support services by ensuring professionals are able to identify genetic risk factors, engage sensitively with families, and make appropriate referrals to specialist services.

The training will initially target midwives and health visitors, with a second phase extending to other frontline professionals, including family hub staff. Delivery will consist of a structured programme of approximately two-hour training sessions delivered through a hybrid model of face-to-face and virtual learning over a 12 to 18 month period.

Participants will also receive supporting e-learning materials and resources. The training should equip participants with practical skills to support informed decision-making and improve access to appropriate healthcare services.

The programme will include an evaluation framework measuring improvements in workforce knowledge, confidence and practice, alongside longer-term indicators such as referral rates to genetic services, quality of clinical records, uptake of screening services and patient experience. Expected outcomes include earlier identification of at-risk families, improved professional confidence, enhanced understanding of screening and treatment options, and more culturally competent care.