PHORCaSTING insights on public health careers.

other professionals to achieve our common goal. Mapping vocational courses that are available to the target workforce, which take the form of on-the-job training (distance learning, e-learning or intensive fast-track training) supplied by employers or run independently, is also a priority. Nutritional content must be gauged to ensure standards are consistently being met in terms of comparability, validity and fitness for purpose. In order to devise a quality assurance framework, benchmark standards in nutrition practice and training are essential. We are making good progress towards our aim of creating a framework in nutrition and with continuing support and teamwork, will reach maximum impact among the wider nutrition workforce. Before the project reaches the end of its three-year lifespan in 2012, we plan to perform further workshops across England and consult further with AfN registrants and key stakeholder advisory and user panels. Our next challenge will be to commission research which will entail large-scale implementation of the workshops with target workforce representatives across England. The workshops will continue to investigate the job roles, specifications, competencies and skills in further depth. The AfN has consulted UKVRN registrants about making changes to the register. The proposals are designed to help increase recognition of nutrition profession roles – a vital step if we are to increase the confidence of the wider workforce and the public. If you would be interested in supporting the project, would like to be a part of our consultation processes, are interested in putting in a tender bid, would like us to inform you of our findings or would simply like to find out more about what we do, please email project@associationfornutrition. org.