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What Is the Right Level of Qualification for Me?
Diploma qualifications are vocational in nature. The most suitable level will be determined by your current role, responsibilities, and the individuals you support, as well as your ability to demonstrate the required Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs).
A qualified assessor will review this with you to ensure you are referred to the most appropriate qualification level.
Wherever possible, we aim to prioritise Apprenticeship funding for diploma qualifications. This is considered on a case‑by‑case basis, taking into account both eligibility and suitability.
Recent changes to legislation have impacted eligibility criteria, particularly for staff on sponsorship arrangements or those holding a Skilled Worker visa. Staff who do not currently meet the criteria for Levy funding will be supported to explore alternative funding routes to ensure continued professional development.
The roles and responsibilities of waking night support staff can vary significantly depending on the service, the level of contact and interaction with individuals supported, and the nature of the support provided. Staff will be supported to access a qualification that is appropriate to their specific role and responsibilities.
Unfortunately, diploma qualifications cannot be offered to bank (relief) staff at this time. Please refer instead to the Career Development Pathway for Relief Staff for alternative development options.
This qualification forms part of the Career Development Pathway for staff who are new to care
(Category A – New to Care).
- Typical duration: 6–8 months
The Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate is a key qualification for those working in adult social care. It covers essential areas including:
- Safeguarding
- Person‑centred care
- Health and safety
- Infection control
- Equality and diversity
- Dementia and autism awareness
The qualification is Ofqual regulated and recognised within the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), ensuring consistent standards across the health and social care sector.
This qualification is part of the Career Development Pathway for experienced care staff
(Category B – Care or Support Workers, including staff new to Creative Support with prior health and social care experience).
- Typical duration: 10–15 months
The Level 3 Diploma supports the development of Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs) required for experienced support workers and Lead Adult Care Worker / Senior Support roles. Core content includes:
- Communication
- Values and behaviours
- Personal development
- Roles and responsibilities
- Health, safety, and wellbeing
- Safeguarding
This qualification is relevant across a range of care settings and specialisms, including:
- Mental health services
- Learning disability support
- Dementia and end‑of‑life care
- Residential and domiciliary care
- Leadership modules for senior support roles
This qualification sits within the Career Development Pathway for higher management roles
(Category D – Leader / Practitioner / Registered Manager).
- Typical duration: 8–15 months
The Level 5 Diploma is a mandatory requirement for Registered Managers of CQC‑regulated services and is essential for staff in management roles.
It provides comprehensive development of the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs) required to lead and manage care services effectively, covering areas such as:
- Leadership and management practice
- Safeguarding
- Ethical and professional standards
- Operational and strategic management in health and social care
Request to undertake a qualification
Staff wishing to undertake a qualification in Adult Care should complete the online application form.
Once completed, a copy will be sent to their line manager for authorisation.
If you require a paper copy, large print, or are having any issues with the online application form, please contact the Learning and Development team at:
Training@creativesupport.co.uk