Reacta Healthcare, a Deeside-based clinical diagnostic company transforming the lives of those with food allergies globally, is positioning itself as a leader in the pharmaceutical industry. Through a joint initiative between Flintshire Council and Coleg Cambria, the company has successfully upskilled more than half of its 60-strong workforce.
Supported by Coleg Cambria’s Employer Skills North Wales programme and funding from Flintshire’s allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), Reacta Healthcare has completed 18 bespoke training courses tailored to its needs. The programme, which received £975,893 from the UKSPF, has provided fully funded professional development opportunities delivered both virtually and in-house.
Established in 2013, Reacta Healthcare plays a vital role in manufacturing challenge meals used to assess the safety and effectiveness of new food allergy treatments. The training has allowed the company to expand its capabilities and strengthen its workforce, ensuring it remains at the forefront of its field.
Seven staff members have qualified as mental health champions through the Introduction to Health Champions course, enabling them to lead monthly wellbeing initiatives, such as the focus on men’s health in November. Additionally, the company enhanced its understanding of safety practices through the IOSH Working Safely course and improved its project management skills via the Prince2 Practitioner certification.
The partnership also supported leadership development, with staff completing Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) courses up to level four, resulting in several internal promotions and better preparedness for future leadership roles.
Sophie Griffiths, Reacta Healthcare’s Head of People, praised the collaboration:
“With the help of Employer Skills North Wales, we’ve been able to strengthen our workforce and align our training needs with high-quality, bespoke solutions. The training has empowered our staff to take on new roles and responsibilities, contributing significantly to our long-term success.
“Establishing a wellbeing team has been particularly rewarding, as it has helped us foster a more supportive environment for employees. Furthermore, the training has improved our IT skills in essential tools like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, boosting productivity across the board.”
The initiative reflects the joint commitment of Flintshire Council and Coleg Cambria to support local businesses in achieving their goals. Rachel Mardon, Employer Skills North Wales Project Support Officer, highlighted the programme’s regional impact:
“During these challenging economic times, our aim is to help businesses across North Wales thrive. Funding from the UKSPF has been instrumental in delivering training that minimizes financial strain on companies. Reacta Healthcare’s success is a shining example of how this collaboration can make a real difference.”
Councillor Chris Dolphin, Flintshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, Environment, and Climate, emphasized the importance of such partnerships:
“Equipping local businesses with the skills and knowledge they need not only strengthens individual companies but drives growth across the region. Reacta Healthcare’s achievements demonstrate the impact of investing in workforce development, and we are proud to have supported this journey alongside Coleg Cambria.”
Reacta Healthcare’s story is a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, providing a blueprint for how local authorities and education providers can work together to drive regional growth and success.
