Six signs you need a workforce plan

Workforce shortages are putting pressure on education and care services, often leading to capped enrolments and reliance on temporary staff. This impacts daily operations and the quality of care. 

A workforce plan is a strategic tool that helps ensure you have the right staff with the right skills at the right time. Here are six clear signs that you may need a workforce plan:

1. High turnover rates disrupting your team?

If your educators are leaving often, it’s a sign that your approach to keeping staff may need to be improved. A workforce plan can offer specific strategies to help build a stable, happy team

2. Struggling to attract qualified educators?

This is a common challenge in the sector and signals the need for a more structured approach to recruitment. A workforce plan can help outline long-term staffing needs and streamline hiring practices.

3. Burnout impacting your staff?

If your team is experiencing burnout, stress or a lack of motivation, a workforce plan will help you to promote wellbeing. Ensuring proper workload distribution and support for educators can reduce stress and absenteeism, creating a healthier work environment.

4. Recruitment costs eating into your budget?

Recruitment and agency staffing can get expensive and put a strain on your service. A workforce plan will help you to make hiring more efficient and reduce the need for constant rehiring.

5. Capping enrolments due to staff shortages?

If your service has had to limit enrolments or often depends on agency staff because of a lack of educators, it’s time for a workforce plan. Proper planning makes sure you have the right people with the right skills, helping keep your staffing levels steady

6. Need a sustainable workforce for the future?

For growing services, especially not-for-profits, building a sustainable workforce is key. A workforce plan can prioritise professional growth and development for educators, ensuring your team is equipped to handle the future needs of the service.

Need extra help? Reach out to our consultants for personalised support in setting up a workforce plan. Visit: www.cccinc.org.au/form/consultancy-webform 

This article was first published in CCC’s member magazine Roundtable, which is delivered directly to CCC members. Learn more about CCC membership here.