Update on new qualifications for the adult social care sector

In our January issue we reported that the existing National Qualifications Framework (NQF) had been replaced by the new Qualification Credit Framework (QCF). 

The QCF is a new way of recognising skills and qualifications by awarding credit for qualifications and units and enabling people to learn at their own pace along flexible routes.

As part of these changes a whole range of new health and social care qualifications are being developed by Skills for Care in partnership with awarding organisations to meet the needs of employers. 

You may already be aware that the Health and Social Care (HSC) NVQs Level 2 and 3 were replaced by HSC Diplomas at Level 2 and 3 in January. Your staff now have the option to take a generic HSC Diploma or a specialist pathway in either dementia or learning disabilities, enabling them to tailor their learning to their job role.

The former learning disability qualification does not exist on the QCF and instead the new HSC Diploma, learning disability pathway, provides a new way for learners to gain contextualised knowledge and skills around supporting individuals with learning disabilities. 

Also, the former leadership and management in care services and the HSC NVQ Level 4 are now combined into a Level 5 qualification.

It is worth remembering that existing qualifications will be recognised at an equivalent level, so your staff who are already qualified will not have to repeat their qualifications.

For a list of all the new qualifications which have been developed for adult social care please visit the Skills for Care website: www.skillsforcare.org.uk

For more information about these changes please call your Business Development Adviser on 0300 011 2344.