January 21, 2026

NHS Golden Jubilee and West College Scotland sign strategic partnership to boost skills, innovation and opportunity

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Pictured (left to right): Anne Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of West College Scotland and Carolynne O'Connor, Chief Executive of NHS Golden Jubilee

NHS Golden Jubilee and West College Scotland have signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement, marking a significant step forward in strengthening education, skills development and innovation across West Dunbartonshire and the wider region.

Bringing together two of the region’s key anchor institutions, the partnership focuses on expanding opportunities for local residents. This includes improving access to education and training, and strengthening the pipeline of skills needed for a thriving, inclusive regional economy.

The agreement commits both organisations to joint action that will positively impact on the following:

Local community

·       Establishing new, accessible routes into employment, including health, care, digital and support services.

  • Skills development for people returning to the workforce, providing flexible training and tailored support.
  • Pathways for young people, helping them develop confidence, qualifications and future‑ready skills that link directly to real jobs.

Health and social care staff

  • Upskilling and reskilling opportunities for NHS Golden Jubilee and other local NHS staff through joint training, professional development and shared learning initiatives.
  • Access to innovative learning models to help staff grow their careers and adapt to emerging technologies and new ways of working
  • Strengthened training pathways that ensure the workforce remains resilient, skilled and equipped for the future
     

Wider community and local employers

  • Closer alignment with regional skills needs, ensuring education and training reflect what employers require now and in the future
  • Community wealth‑building, supporting sustainable job creation and local economic growth
  • Shared facilities and resources, broadening community access to training, learning and support services
     

On signing the agreement, Anne Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of West College Scotland, said: “Partnering with NHS Golden Jubilee allows us to expand high‑quality learning opportunities and open up clear, supported routes into rewarding careers.

“This agreement strengthens our ability to help young people take their first steps, support adults returning to work, and equip local residents with the skills our region needs. By working together, we can maximise opportunity, drive innovation in learning, and contribute to a stronger, more inclusive economy across West Dunbartonshire and beyond.”

Carolynne O’Connor, Chief Executive of NHS Golden Jubilee, added: “This partnership is a major step in shaping the future of our workforce and supporting the growth of health and care careers across the region. By combining our strengths with West College Scotland, we can build new pathways into the NHS, nurture talent, and ensure people of all ages have opportunities to learn, develop and progress.

“Together, we are investing in local employment, supporting community wellbeing, and helping West Dunbartonshire thrive through sustainable, long‑term skills development.”

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