What qualifications do you need?
If you are new to care, whether you’re a school-leaver or looking for a career change, qualifications can help get you on the social care ladder. The qualifications you choose to study for are going to depend on the role you want to do. Having relevant professional qualifications will be essential for moving forward.
Qualifications can play an important role in learning and development and there are a wide variety available within home care. See below for some recognised examples.
Qualifications for home care workers / live-in care workers
To work in these roles, a level 2 Health and Social Care or working towards, is the key qualification home care agencies like to see. This qualification is an introduction to Health and Social Care. It will cover subjects such as safeguarding and protection,
Most employers will allow study time at a local college outside of working hours. There are also apprentice positions with some employers or opportunities to get qualified in-house.
Qualifications for senior care workers / care coordinators
To step into these roles, it will generally involve studying for a level 3 diploma in Health and Social Care. It’s also often seen as a progression route for Care Workers after completing the level 2 diploma. This qualification will support learners to develop skills and knowledge needed to provide a lead role in their organisation.
Qualifications for senior management
The level 5 diploma in Health and Social Care is designed to equip learners with the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills required for a career in the health and social care sector at a managerial level. This qualification is aimed at is for those already working in the sector and is a Care Quality Commission (CQC) requirement for anyone looking to undertake a Registered Manager position.
Your career in social care
Wherever you choose to start your career in social care, there are going to be opportunities to specialise in a specific area of expertise. There are many qualifications on offer to help you to progress and enjoy a higher salary as you continue to learn and grow in your chosen role. To get started, it is always worth looking out for jobs that will help you get on that first step as part of your training and work towards getting your first qualification in Care.
Take a look at jobs in the care sector on our jobs board homecare.co.uk/jobs
