Integra People support both public and private sector health care settings by placing trained nurses, health care assistants, support workers and qualified social workers on a temporary, contract, and permanent basis.
We have an extensive database of high calibre candidates, and our industry specialists have the expertise to provide the right candidate for each client.
We take great pride in matching the ideal staff in the most suitable settings and are passionate about the professional and supportive service we provide our clients and candidates.
Because our job roles involve staff working with vulnerable adults and children, we have a duty to ensure that all the staff we supply have been vetted appropriately, and we will ensure our vetting service matches your specific requirements.
Should candidates require additional qualifications to increase their skillset for a particular role, we provide a range of courses using our bespoke e-learning programme.
We put our success down to our excellent knowledge of the sector, rigorous quality and safeguarding standards, superb consultant training and a commitment to helping both our staff and candidates grow and develop as professionals.
Our consultants have a wealth of experience in the sector and are passionate about providing solutions to fulfil all clients’ requirements, no matter what time frame is agreed.
View our healthcare jobs below
Hot Jobs
News & Blog
June 21,2017
What makes construction workers tick?
Construction workers are known for handing out tough, dreaded initiations, especially for apprentices, yet workplace banter like this is what makes 76% happy to get up on a Monday morning, according to A HR News survey of 1,220 workers.
In a 2015 report aimed at discovering in which job sector workers are happiest, construction and facility service workers came out on top, out of 30,000 employees across more than 500 organisations in 12 industries.
TINYpulse’s Best Industry Report which gathered anonymous information from one-question feedback surveys, highlighted a steady growth in construction job satisfaction.
One of the biggest boosts in satisfied workers was rooted in good relationships with colleagues. The survey found that 34% of the happiest employees say that positive relationships with peers and colleagues are what fuel their workplace harmony.
In the report, Jay Walter, general manager of JWH Group, summed up the overall effect on happiness the industry has on its workers. “This is an industry that has many walks of life with people working in an office to people out on site,” he says.
“One thing that unites everybody at the end of the day is kicking back for a little bit with a few beers and talking stuff out–the good and the bad.
If people have an issue, they will come see a manager during office hours, but sometimes the best environment is when people can relax a bit and just have a drink alongside a manager.”
A survey conducted by Simply Business of 17,000 tradespeople, revealed that 54% find workplace banter the most enjoyable aspect of their job.
Tragically, it was recently reported that a teenage apprentice working in a car dealership committed suicide after pranks from co-workers started to cross the line.
While valuing banter and having a laugh is good news for morale and mental health, there is often a fine line between banter and bullying, and construction workers must make sure their sense of humour is shared by all involved.
News & Blog
June 14,2017
Uncertainty over worker availability in the food manufacturing industry
As Theresa May’s snap election backfired and we are faced with a hung parliament, and Brexit negotiations even more unclear, businesses are left still concerned about the future of the food and farming sector.
Politicians have been urged to protect Britain’s food manufacturing sector, worth £109bn, and believe that industry and economy need to be at the top of the table.
Ian Wright, Director of FDF, said: “Food is a matter of national security. Food and farming is the sector most impacted by Brexit and the EU. It is imperative that the new government recognises this, and the importance of the food and drink industry in relation to the success of the wider UK economy.”
A recent survey of 400 recruitment agencies conducted by the REC, revealed that demand for staff is the highest in 21 months, and the amount of people available for those jobs has plummeted.
Tom Hadley, REC Director of Policy, revealed that unemployment has dropped to the lowest level since 1975, and the EU citizens are leaving the UK in droves. Employers seeking to fill vacancies are running out of options.
RSM head of manufacturing Mike Thornton, said that the number of EU workers able to work in the UK after we leave the EU would cause massive disruption to the entire food supply chain.
In a recent paper by the Food Research Collaboration, it was revealed that there will be a potential labour shortage if the supply of EU migrants decreases after Brexit, and the UK food manufacturing workforce is roughly 117,000, made up of EU migrants.
There is an ageing workforce, and a need, according to the study, to recruit up to 140,000 new workers by 2024. The report is attempting to force the food industry to rethink its approach to recruitment, careers, and how food is produced.
What could be done?
Attract young talent using marketing strategies.
Ensure that those who teach are fully qualified experts.
Career progression – regular reviews and action plans.
Pay increases when warranted and appropriate.
Job security – permanent contracts.
Better working conditions – benefits, flexibility.
Introduction of new technologies that make the job easier and ensure the food manufacturing sector is keeping up with the modern times.
The government to develop home grown talent. The FDF believe the next government must commit to long-term investment in skills and apprenticeships so that UK remains the destination of choice for multinational food and drink manufacturers.
Dr Adrian Morley, a Researcher at Manchester Metropolitan University, said: “We need to decide as a society what type of food system we want – one that provides good quality jobs and long-term careers for the majority of its workers, or one that is subject to the vagaries of world markets which are often dependent on low-skill, low paid work.”
News & Blog
June 05,2017
The Top 5 Manufacturing Trends in 2017
Manufacturing trends evolve from year to year, with the introduction of revolutionary new technology, security measures and government changes, and manufacturers must adapt to the changing demands in the sector in order to flourish.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at the key manufacturing trends that are prevalent in 2017 so far:
1) The rise of green manufacturing
Many manufacturers were initially sceptical about embracing green processes and materials, with focus being put on environmental benefits and not cost savings. Now companies are realising the cost-saving potential, 2017 is set to see the use of renewable energy and lean production more and more.
Manufacturers are taking steps towards achieving a green production environment, by implementing lean manufacturing practices and reducing waste. A significant reduction in costs is provided by the use of renewable energy sources, and manufacturing products with recyclable or renewable resources can also lead to lower material costs.
Now being viewed as cheaper and accessible, using green manufacturing practices could become commonplace as it drives long-term savings. Green manufacturing will continue to rise as more technology becomes available and companies realise the environmental benefits and cost savings.
2) Growth in Manufacturing Recruitment sector:
The number of job openings in manufacturing is continuing to outpace the number of available hires, and this skills gap looks to be not slowing down in the foreseeable future. There are 4,872 job roles within the manufacturing industry, so aggressive hiring is needed.
The industry looks set to benefit well into 2017. CV Library released some data from analysis of the average number of jobs in the UK’s key sectors in 2016, and manufacturing was up 26%, with applications rising by 30% and figures expected to pick up substantially.
According to statistics from The Manufacturer, manufacturing is strong with the UK currently the world’s ninth largest industrial nation. Manufacturing makes up 10 percent of GVA and 45% of UK exports, directly employing 2.7 million people.
Manufacturers must detail to potential candidates what the company’s strategy is, and how it plans to achieve its targets. Skilled, available candidates will be looking for a package with lots of benefits, and can be selective with their choice of workplace.
3) Brexit good for business:
New technology, models and investments, and company owners aim to reverse the depressing decline we have seen since the recession in 2008. Over two thirds of manufacturing firms expect to grow in 2017 despite the impact of Brexit, according to the findings of the annual Business Census 2017 report.
One major impact of the referendum has been the sterling’s rapid depreciation against other currencies, making exports cheaper, which in turn makes buying British goods more attractive.
The pound has declined by about 15% against the dollar and the euro since Britain’s referendum on EU membership. It is estimated that profits in manufacturing could increase on average by about 16% of value added, mostly due to the fall in sterling.
Many exporters have been enjoying the weaker value of the pound, though exporting success largely depends on what happens to the value of the pound, yet currently it makes goods more affordable for businesses importing from Britain.
4) Smart Technology prominent
Products are becoming smarter in 2017, and as things and trends come and go, phones, companies, and the workforce must keep up with this as well as coming up with innovative ideas.
Manufacturers often have a lack of technological knowledge and experience, yet the digital infrastructure is required to create innovative products and concepts. Smarter products are capable of collating, managing and storing data relating to usage, consumer behaviour and prominent design flaws.
Manufacturers are becoming inspired by a new generation of deep machine learning, AI, and natural language tools, and are applying them to product testing and field performance data to quickly fix causes of quality issues.
Companies will reap the benefits of this life cycle of data by starting to manufacture products in new ways. Over time, these techniques should bring product improvements as well as cost effective products for both the company and the customers.
5) Attention is on Manufacturing Cybersecurity
There has been a surge in demand for cyber security as virtual and augmented reality have become a big part of our digital lives already. Manufacturers of all sizes need to rethink, redesign, and potentially radically improve their cybersecurity strategies.
As technology advances, there is unfortunately a larger attack surface that cyber criminals can invade. From using cloud, data analytics and mobile to improve their connectivity and infrastructure, manufacturers must also ensure security is part of the product design.
Manufacturers can reduce the risk of these social engineering attacks by educating their employees on basic cybersecurity principles, and must aim to hire cybersecurity savvy professionals.
Processes such as additive manufacturing and the internet of things as well as newly created materials all bring substantial benefits to end users, and will bring further opportunities for the manufacturing industry.
As manufacturing changing trends present emerging opportunities, they also bring some challenges, such as the need for precision, speed, and profitability. Time will tell which of 2017’s opportunities will be taken advantage of and which challenges will be overcome.
News & Blog
May 31,2017
Why Construction Workers Need To Understand the Risks of Sun Exposure
According to a recent study published in the British Journal of Cancer, construction work has been revealed as the most at risk occupation for developing skin cancer.
Construction workers accounted for 21 deaths (44%) and 101 cases of malignant melanoma. The sun is a health hazard for all outdoor workers, and exposure to the sun’s UV rays whilst working leads to one death and five new cases of malignant melanoma each week.
Dr Lesley Rushton, lead researcher, said: “We’ve shown previously that people often don’t understand the risks of damage caused by the sun in the UK. But this research shows you don’t have to work in the Mediterranean or a traditionally sunny country for the sun to damage your skin.”
People often do not think of the sun in the UK as damaging, and reserve sun screen application for holidays abroad. With the findings revealing such shocking statistics, we uncover what needs to be done to help prevent skin damage:
How can construction workers prevent sun damage?
Sarah Williams, health information manager at Cancer Research UK, said: “We all need some sun for healthy bones, but too much can increase the risk of skin cancer, and the risk can be higher for some people."
It is important to get to know your body, including any moles, and to consult a doctor if you notice any changes to how your skin looks or feels.
"Generally, the best ways for people to protect their skin is to spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm, and cover up with clothing. Also use sunscreen with at least SPF15 and four or more stars on the parts of the body you can’t cover, like face and hands,” said Williams.
Over the counter sunscreen is effective, but an industrial strength sunscreen will be even more effective for a full day of sun exposure. Industrial sunscreen covers a broad spectrum and contains zinc oxide, and is strong enough to last all day.
Construction workers already have many safety precautions to consider before starting any job, such as falling debris or machine malfunctions, yet the dangers of the sun are sometimes overlooked.
If construction workers do not take appropriate precautions, being out in the sun too much creates working conditions that pose a risk of serious harm.
News & Blog
May 23,2017
Integra People to create 15 jobs after soaring into 2017 with huge profit increases
National recruitment company Integra People recently celebrated another successful year for the business, with significant increase in turnover and gross profit, and are looking forward to giving something back by creating new jobs for talented recruiters, administration and accounts staff.
Compared with the first quarter of 2016, the first quarter of 2017 saw a 77% increase in turnover, and a 62.5% increase in gross profit, which the company attributes to company expansion and rebranding, as well as hiring skilled recruitment consultants.
Since Integra People launched during the 2008 recession, the company has grown from strength to strength, most recently introducing two new sectors, education and healthcare. The permanent revenue has surpassed expectations, and has had a huge impact on the company’s bottom line.
They have recently undergone a major rebrand in conjunction with taking the company to the next level, and reflecting the fluid evolution of the company.
David Lewis, Managing Director at Integra People, said: “The companys success is down to our team’s innovation, drive and dedication to our clients and candidates.
We want to now focus on expanding our already expert teams, and we are excited at the prospect of establishing connections with other likeminded and passionate companies.”
Due to company success and client demand, since January 2017, Integra People have expanded its workforce and hired fifteen employees, twelve of whom are recruitment consultants, and three who work in finance and resourcing.
The main goal now is to employ 15 more members of staff in 2017, to cater for its various locations around the country, and to specialise in its seven sectors: construction, engineering, IT and telecoms, manufacturing and industrial, commercial and business support, education, and healthcare.
The company vision is to ensure the new recruits, divisions and rebrand efforts help Integra People meet the goal of becoming a £20 million recruitment group over the next few years.
News & Blog
May 16,2017
The benefits of gender equality in the workplace
Currently women are offered better access to flexible working, there is more support for maternity pay, and women generally have better qualifications than men.
In today’s modern times however, although the laws are in place for gender equality and equal pay, inequality and a pay gap still remains in many workplaces across the nation.
Workplace gender equality can only be achieved when employees are able to access and enjoy the same rewards and opportunities, equal pay for work of equal or comparable value, and all occupations and industries and roles are accessible, regardless of gender.
The persistent pay gap and gender equality is often attributed to male dominated workplaces, women being underrepresented in executive positions, and the impact of having a family and work-life balances facing women.
To address the ongoing issue of the gender pay gap, businesses who employ over 250 people will now be required to publish their gender pay gap and gender bonus information on their own website and on a government website.
Gender diversity on the whole is brought to widespread attention when it dominates headlines every year on International Women’s Day (8th March). This year, many companies and organisations revealed their intentions to drive change in this area.
With that in mind, here is a look at what the benefits of gender equality are:
It is fair, and the right thing to do, therefore your company’s reputation will be enhanced. How a business is represented to an audience, employee and potential talent pool is a key definer in its overall success.
If women are represented fairly and equally, they are likely to perform better, leading to a boost in company profits. Satisfaction levels from fair representation increases employee engagement.
If for example a board of directors is diverse, the company culture will be shaped differently. There is a good chance of it being a successful business due to diversity in decision making, and problems being approached from a wider set of perspectives.
Improvement in national productivity and economic growth.
Enhanced ability of companies to attract talent and retain employees. Widening your talent pool will be more successful if the company is renowned for elimination of discrimination, and candidates will in turn feel confident in bringing their different skills to the table.
At Integra People we recognise the importance of gender equality and employ successful males and females in all roles, with our workforce compiling of 53% women and 47% men.
News & Blog
May 10,2017
Mental Health Awareness – How to Combat Stress in the Workplace
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we are taking a look at mental health in the workplace, namely stress. Although a little stress is normal, and can even be good for productivity and focus, excessive stress can interfere with your productivity and performance.
Almost half of all long term sickness from work is due to mental health problems, yet there is still a stigma around it, and many people who are suffering still do not feel as though they can speak up about their issues.
One in four people will experience a mental health problem every year, and mental health can rear its head in the form of stress, anxiety, and panic attacks, causing or caused by workplace stress.
Are you stressed?
Early signs of stress include:
Changes to your normal behaviour — such as eating and sleep habits;
Feeling depressed or down and becoming increasingly emotional;
Becoming withdrawn, nervous and demotivated;
Feeling confused and disappointed with yourself.
If mental health issues are causing damage to your confidence, mind and body, and you are dreading work, there are several methods that may you to regain control and reduce your stress levels:
A problem shared is a problem halved
Quite often, simply talking about your mental health can help alleviate some of the pain you are experiencing, and it is often comforting to realise that your friends, family and colleagues have often experienced the same emotions and problems at some point, too.
Reaching out to co-workers may make you nervous, as you don’t want to appear weak or unprofessional, yet you probably spend more time with your colleagues than some of your friends, and if you are feeling low, it could make all of the difference to have a support system in work.
Often we do not need somebody to ‘fix’ our problems, just to listen to them, and if they can offer some advice then that is an added bonus.
Facing up to anxiety and how it makes you feel can be the first step in breaking the cycle of fear and insecurity, and talking about your stress and anxiety can help you take back control of your emotions.
Maintain a healthy work/life balance
The Corporate Executive Board, which represents 80% of the Fortune 500 companies, found that employees who believe that they have good work-life balance work 21% harder than those who don't.
All work and no play is not healthy, and will often lead to a total burnout - then what good will you be? It is important to find and maintain a good balance between home and work life, and make time for friends and family and enjoying your hobbies.
Delete your email application when you go on holiday, so the only passages you need to read are those from the book you have been too tired to read for months, with a cocktail in hand.
Eat well and exercise
Eating a healthy balanced diet provides you with all the nutrients you need to take part in your favourite sport or activity, and building up a sweat releases endorphins that are proven to increase our mood.
Unhealthy foods often lead to lethargic moods, and the temporary ‘feel good’ emotions are replaced by guilt and low energy.
How you treat your body also contributes to the health of your mind – so if you eat your fruit and veg, visit the gym from time to time, and divulge in some green exercise at the weekend, chances are you will begin to feel better about yourself.
It is easy, especially in an office setting, to neglect your physical health and to reach for that delicious looking muffin your co-worker baked the night before. Make time for regular exercise, and make smart choices about the foods you eat, and reap the benefits.
Be proactive about your role and duties
Whether you are overworked with too many responsibilities coming your way and not enough help, or are left to your own devices questioning your position in the company, everybody needs to know where they stand in the workplace for job satisfaction.
Maybe you have outgrown your current role, and are no longer receiving job satisfaction. You may be able to escape a monotonous role simply by having a conversation with your manager, and requesting a transfer, or extra duties.
Bottling up feelings of frustration and confusion is dangerous, so go out of your comfort zone and show that you care about your role and progress. It will impress leaders, and will be a weight off your shoulders.
Tackle your bad habits
If you spend too much time on social media, it could negatively impact your mental health. According to a recent study by UK disability charity Scope, of 1500 Facebook and Twitter users surveyed, 62 percent reported feeling inadequate and 60 percent reported feelings of jealousy from comparing themselves to other users.
People and celebrities often post their ‘best bits’ on social media, yet other see this as their whole, idealistic life, and let’s face it, if you’re feeling stressed out at work and you see Susan from school getting paid to do yoga in exotic destinations, it is unlikely to improve your mood.
Delete the Susan’s of your social media, or the applications altogether, and turn your phone off an hour or so before you sleep. Allowing yourself and your brain to rest before another day at work. Ideally, adults should get eight hours of rest to feel able to face the day.
If you are a serial snoozer, set your alarm ten minutes earlier, and give yourself more time in the morning and on your commute. Worrying about the possibility of being late is added and unnecessary stress.
Another habit common in mental health sufferers is seeing the negative in situations, and being overly self-critical. Nobody can be perfect all of the time, and trying to be is very stressful and unrealistic. Give yourself a pat on the back when you do something good, and try to see the positives in every situation.
What can employers do to help?
As well as reducing employee sickness, “promoting good workplace wellbeing makes business sense, as it drives staff engagement, morale, loyalty and productivity” said Emma Mamo from UK based mental health charity Mind.
A 2014 report by the UK government revealed that 70 million work days were lost in Britain during the previous year due to mental health, and this cost the country billions of pounds.
Employers could organise regular team building functions, to promote staff bonding, teambuilding, and perhaps tackle hidden frustrations and conflicts. Whether the sessions are purely social or are demanding on the body or mind, it shows that employees are valued as individuals and not simply numbers in an office.
As mentioned, employees often feel stressed due to uncertainty in their role and feeling underappreciated, therefore management should make a conscious effort to carry out appraisals when necessary, provide one-to-one meetings routinely, and ensure workers know that their progress is important, and they are valued.
There could also be flexible policies introduced to those who require it, and employers can put a framework in place where employees are able to approach the company for advice and support services where necessary.
A study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that 89 percent of HR professionals reported an increase in employee retention simply by launching the implementation of flexible work arrangements.
From offering rewards and incentives for good work performance, clarifying expectations, and promoting communication, there are lots of ways to ensure that the workplace is as stress free and enjoyable as possible.
Perhaps you know that you simply need some time to yourself, therefore do whatever needs to be done. Your health is more important than that spreadsheet, and you won’t be gone forever.
If you are facing long hours, tight deadlines, uncertainty, or are feeling unable to cope, there are many great organisations available, such as Mind, Rethink, and Fit for Work, that support you in taking positive actions to improve your mental health.
News & Blog
May 02,2017
The Top 10 Most Expensive Construction Projects in the World
Money has enabled humans to design, build and move things at incredible speeds. If we look back to projects such as the Eiffel Tower, which wowed at the time, they now seem a little futile compared to the skyscrapers and construction creations of today.
If something seems impossible, it is likely that mankind will try and conquer it. We have already done amazing things, such as building a tunnel under the English Channel, and flying to the moon, and here are the top ten expensive yet fascinating projects in the history of mankind:
10. The Channel Tunnel, $22.4 billion
The underground Channel Tunnel (also known as the Chunnel) stretches 31.4 miles between the southern coast of England and the northern coast of France, underneath the English Channel. It features three tunnels, two for freight/passenger traffic, and one for security use.
Fifteen French and British companies privately financed the $22.4 billion project, which exceeded original expectations by 80% due to escalating demands for safety, security, and environmental measures.
Tunnel boring machines began excavating for the projects in 1988 and the tunnel began operating in 1994. Ten workers tragically died during the construction phase.
The Chunnel boasts the longest undersea portion of any tunnel in the world, and was recognised by the American Society of Civil Engineers as one of the “Seven Wonders of the Modern World”.
9. The Big Dig, $23.1 billion
The Big Dig project had to do with rerouting some major highways in the Boston area, and cost taxpayers an estimated $23.1 billion.
Planning began in 1982, and the construction work was carried out between 1991 and 2006; and the project concluded on December 31, 2007, over ten years behind schedule, and costing millions of dollars more than expected.
The Big Dig was the most expensive highway project in the US, and was plagued by cost overruns, delays, leaks, design flaws, charges of poor execution and use of substandard materials, criminal arrests, and one tragic death.
8. Apollo Space Program, $25.4 billion
The Apollo space program, including the 1969 moon landing by the Apollo 11 Lunar Module came to $25.4 billion, and remains one of humanities greatest technological achievements.
This decision involved much study and review prior to making it public, and tremendous expenditure and effort to make it a reality by 1969.
It was finally successfully accomplished on 20 July 1969, when Apollo 11's astronaut Neil Armstrong left the Lunar Module and set foot on the surface of the Moon.
7. Kensai International Airport, $29 billion
Located in Osaka, Japan’s second largest city, is the Kansai International Airport which cost $29 billion to make. Planning for the new airport commenced in the 1960s when city officials became concerned about losing trade to Tokyo.
It was built in the water, resting on a man-made island in order to resist earthquakes, tidal waves, and noise complaints. The airport was built to resist these kind of freak accidents, and has withstood both typhoons and earthquakes successfully since it was built.
Part of the price tag went towards metal support columns and other structural pieces, in order to prevent it from sinking. A second terminal was added in 2012, and is connected via a free shuttle to Terminal 1.
6. California High Speed Rail, $33 billion+
Work on the California High Speed Rail started in 2015, and phase 1 is set to be completed by 2029. It is already way over its original budget, and is tipped to reach $98.5 billion.
The first phase is planned to run between Madera and Bakersfield, and was one of President Obama’s first-term pledges, to connect the major US cities by high-speed rail.
The high speed ‘bullet train’ will stretch between San Francisco and Los Angeles, with rails that can support travel up to 220 mph.
5. Dubailand, $76 billion+
When Dubailand was announced in 2003, it was one of the most ambitious leisure developments ever proposed anywhere in the world. It is not even complete and is already one of the most expensive projects in history.
The reason behind Dubailand was that some thought Dubai needed a major attraction geared towards families. There are design aspects based on Arabian Folklore, and plans for a Disney theme park, an IMAX theatre and many other attractions.
Construction was halted on this project in 2008, due to financial crisis, and resumed in 2013; Current estimates predict that Dubailand will open before 2020.
4. King Abdullah Economic City, $95 billion
Construction of the Saudi Arabian city started is expected to be finished in 2020, yet in 2015, only 15 percent had been completed. Named after the late King Abdullah, the city will be slightly larger than Washington D.C. and will house 2 million residents.
Located over an hour away from Mecca, the city is set to become a new tourist attraction for Saudi Arabia, and will boast high class hotels, luxury villas, prestigious universities, and a massive airport. It will also be home to residential neighbourhoods, with a hope of diversifying the region’s economies.
The project is being built by real estate group Emaar Properties, who are known for building Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world’s tallest building.
3. Kashagan Fields, $116 billion
The largest oil discovery in the past 40 years led to the Kashagan Fields, located in the Caspian Sea, and commercial production began in September 2013.
Part of the construction includes building man-made islands in a sea frozen for large periods of time. Leaks in pipes and other difficulties have caused delays in construction of the project, and the fields are under high pressure making drilling into them very dangerous.
The operation is expected to start during 2017 and to produce over 90,000 barrels of oil per day. Experts estimate the production yield to total as much as 13 billion barrels of retrievable oil.
2. The International Space Station, $150 billion
The ISS orbits Earth and enables scientists to conduct experiments in astronomy, biology, and physics. Built in 1994 on Earth and assembled in space, fourteen countries worked together to complete this project.
The main tools used were Russian rockets and the space shuttle, and the station was not inhabited until two years into construction, when the Russian module Zvezda was added containing pressurising equipment and sleeping quarters.
After 26 years of service, the ISS, one of the most expensive projects in history is to be crashed into the ocean in 2020.
1. The Interstate Highway System, $459 billion
The most expensive project in the history of mankind, the Interstate Highway System in America connects more than 47,000 miles and took almost 35 years to complete.
The project involved created new routes and converting old ones, to serve as ‘interstates’, and has cost the taxpayer a huge $459 billion.
Work began in 1955 after President Dwidght D. Eisenhower proposed the project as being crucial for national defence and to help mobilise infantry in an emergency. Thanks to the project, travel for both citizens and the military has been improved, and there are more accessible routes in case of war.
News & Blog
April 26,2017
Mental Health Provision Shortage Puts Pressure on Police
It has been revealed that police are having to provide a substantial amount of mental health care, due to a shortage of other workers and when no paramedics are available.
It has worrying consequences such as people being locked up for long periods of time until medical help can be received, when no crime has actually been committed.
The report warned that problems will not improve until mental health is given the same priority as physical health.
In the annual State of Policing report, it was revealed that police forces were “increasingly being used as a service of first resort”, and handled over 300,000 incidents involving mental health in the UK last year.
Sir Tom Winsor, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary, said that the provision of mental healthcare has reached such a state of severity that police are often being used to fill the gaps other agencies cannot.
Winsor warns that more effort is needed from other public sectors in mental health prevention. “By the time depression or some other mental disorder has been allowed to advance to the point that someone is contemplating suicide, or engaging in very hazardous behaviour, many opportunities to intervene will have been missed by many organisations,” he said.
The report stressed that prevention of mental illness was more effective than police dealing with call-outs at the point of fatality, and that this could only be achieved through investment in health services.
Mental health is high on the political and social agenda currently. In her first speech of 2017, Theresa May pledged to “transform” the way mental health was dealt with, and Prince William, Prince Harry and Kate Middleton have spearheaded a campaign called ‘Heads Together’, alongside YoungMinds and seven other charities.
With a host of celebrities such as Lady Gaga offering their own experiences of mental health in a series of videos, the campaign aims to dispel the stigma which surrounds mental health, and encourage people to talk about their feelings.
Prince William referred to a ‘stiff upper lip’ tradition he believed to be common amongst the monarchy, and perhaps if people knew that they are not alone, and spoke about their issues, many mental health fatalities could be prevented.
According to a force spokesman at Gloucestershire Constabulary, around 25% of people will suffer mental distress at some point in their lives and it’s been estimated that 50% of the people coming into contact with police will have some form of mental health issue.
Brandon Lewis, the policing minister, said in a statement: “People experiencing mental health crisis need to be supported by health professionals in the right place, which is not a police cell.
The police cannot provide the specialist care needed, which is why the government has invested an additional £1 billion by 2020 to improve mental health services.”
News & Blog
April 21,2017
5 Key Employment Law Changes: April 2017
April is always a key time of the year for HR professionals and employers alike, and the recent legislation changes come at a time of mass Brexit upheaval and the triggering of Article 50.
As new employment legislation comes into force, we look at the four key changes affecting employers: gender pay gap reporting, apprenticeship levy, the immigration skills charge regulations, national minimum wage, and pension’s advice allowance.
The new changes introduced by the government in April 2017 are as follows:
Gender Pay Gap Reporting
To address the ongoing issue of the gender pay gap, businesses who employ over 250 people will now be required to publish their gender pay gap and gender bonus information on their own website and on a government website.
The publication will appear on their own website for three years, and will be available for customers, employees and potential future employees to view.
Employers in the private and voluntary sector must base their pay data on staff employed on a snapshot date of 5th April each year, and organisations in the public sector must use 31st March as their snapshot day.
Employers have the opportunity to give reasons for the results, outline areas for improvement and detail actions being taken to reduce/eliminate the gender pay gap.
Apprenticeship Levy
From 6th April 2017, employers with a payroll of over £3 million must pay the apprenticeship levy each month, to the HMRC through the PAYE process.
The levy is charged at 0.5% of the annual pay bill, and its purpose is to raise money to meet the cost of apprenticeship schemes across the UK.
The new scheme is expected to operate from 1st May 2017, and employers that do not pay the levy will also be able to access funding for apprenticeships.
Intermediaries Legislation (IR35)
If the individual could be regarded as an employee if the intermediary did not exist, people who work in the public sector through an intermediary will need to pay employment taxes in a similar way to employees.
The fee payer will calculate Income Tax and primary (employee) National Insurance contributions and pay them over to HMRC.
Where hiring teams use an employment agency, or other third party to supply labour they will need to tell them if the rules apply for the positions they are filling.
National Minimum Wage
The National Minimum Wage has increased for all ages, in line with the annual increase in the National Living Wage for workers aged 25 and over.
As of 1st April 2017, the National Minimum Wage increased for workers over 25 to £7.50 per hour from £7.20. For workers ages 21-24 it rose to £7.05 from £6.95, and those aged 18-20 will now be entitled to £5.60 an hour from £5.55. Under 18s will now earn £4.05, from £4.00, and apprentices will go from £3.40 to £3.50.
Future changes for both the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage will take place in April of each year.
Pensions Advice Allowance
Members of defined-contribution and hybrid pension schemes will be able to access £500 tax free from their scheme, to be redeemed against the expense of financial advice.
From 6th April, the value of pensions and retirement advice provided by employers increased from £150 to £500, and the increase is designed to make advice more affordable and encourage consumers to consider taking advice to plan for their retirement.
The changes follows a recommendation from the Financial Advice Market Review (FAMR) which found that there is a significant impact on retirement incomes if financial advice is received early.
Registered Nurse, Nights - Bolton
£36192 - £36192 per annum
Registered Nurse required for a small 25 bedded nursing home based in Bolton Hours: Full TimeSalary:£36,192Location: Bolton DescriptionThe successful candidate will be dedicated, warm and compassionate.You will need excellent, communication, literacy, observational and clinical skills and be self-reliant in leading a small team of care staff... More
Clinical Lead RGN - Wrexham - Nursing Home
£16.00 - £16.00 per annum
Clinical Lead Required for medium sized home based in Wrexham.Hours: 39 per weekSalary: £16 per hourLocation: WrexhamShift Pattern: 7.15 am - 8.15 pm with a 2 hour "paid break"As a Clinical Lead Nurse you have responsibility for leading a team of nursing staff to ensure the delivery of an excellent standard of care... More
Deputy Nurse Manager - Wigan
£35360 - £35360 per annum
Deputy Manager - Nurse required for a nursing home based in WiganJob Title: Deputy Nurse ManagerSalary: £35,360.00 per annumHours: Full Time 40hours per week with Supernumerary/office hoursThe Role:Develop the skills of the care teamPromote and maintain a high standard of nursing careTo ensure effective induction of all staff... More
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RGN, Staff Nurse - Nights - Chorley
£15.00 - £15.00 per hour
Registered Nurse required for a nursing home based in Chorley.Hours: Part Time or Full Time - NightsSalary:£15.00Location: ChorleyDescriptionThe successful candidate will be dedicated, warm and compassionate.You will need excellent, communication, literacy... More
Senior Residential Support Worker - Tonyrefail
£18000 - £20000 per annum
Senior Residential Support Worker - required for a service based TonyrefailEssential CriteriaQualification: NVQ level 3 in Children & young people also a full UK Driving License.Age Restriction: You must be at least 22 years of age to apply for this position.Pay: £18,000 - £20... More
Senior Residential Support Worker - Abergavenny
£18000 - £20000 per annum
Senior Residential Support Worker - required for a service based AbergavennyEssential CriteriaQualification: NVQ level 3 in Children & young people also a full UK Driving License.Age Restriction: You must be at least 22 years of age to apply for this position.Pay: £18,000 - £20... More
Deputy Nurse Manager - Southport
£16.00 - £16.00 per hour
Deputy Manager - Nurse required for a nursing home based in SouthportJob Title: Deputy Nurse ManagerSalary: £16.00 per hourHours: Full Time - 40 hours per weekDeputy Nurse ManagerIntegra Healthcare is currently recruiting for a Deputy Nurse Manager in Liverpool... More
Senior Residential Support Worker - Ammanford
£18000 - £20000 per annum
Senior Residential Support Worker - required for a service based AmmanfordEssential CriteriaQualification: NVQ level 3 in Children & young people also a full UK Driving License.Age Restriction: You must be at least 22 years of age to apply for this position.Pay: £18,000 - £20,000 per annum with a sleep in allowance of £30 per nightHours:... More
Registered Nurse, Nights - Warrington
£16.00 - £16.00 per hour
Registered Nurse required for Nights - within a 30 bedded Nursing Home set in acres of land - based in Warrington, Cheshire.CQC rated 'GOOD' in all 5 areasBenefits... More
Deputy Nurse Manager - Southport
£35360 - £35360 per annum
Deputy Manager - Nurse required for a nursing home based in Southport."Perfect opportunity for an experienced nurse looking to further their career into management".Job Title: Deputy Nurse ManagerSalary: £35,360.00Hours: Full Time 40 hours per week with Supernumerary/office hoursThe Role... More
Residential Home Manager - Leyland
£30000 - £30000 per annum
Residential Home Manager required for home based in Leyland.The home requires a strong experienced home manager as the home currently requires improvment as required by CQC regulations.The ideal candidate will have... More
