The Care Certificate consists of the following 15 Standards: 1. Understand your role 2. Your personal development 3. Duty of care 4. Equality and diversity 5. Work in a person-centred way 6. Communication 7. Privacy and dignity 8. Fluids and nutrition 9. Awareness of mental health, dementia and learning disabilities 10. Safeguarding adults 11. Safeguarding children 12. Basic life support 13. Health and safety 14. Handling information 15. Infection prevention and control

The Care Certificate is ideal for individuals with a genuine interest in working in the health and social care sector.

The course requires approximately 17 hours of learning and is designed to be completed within a 12-week timeframe. However, some learners may finish it in as little as 6 weeks, depending on their pace and availability.

Yes, but to be awarded the Care Certificate the person must acquire knowledge and demonstrate competence in all 15 standards. Assessment of knowledge and understanding is prefixed with verbs such as “describe”, “explain”, “define”, “list” or “identify” and can be based upon written or verbal evidence such as a workbook, written questions, case studies or sound files. Evidence of performance prefixed with words such as “demonstrate”, “take steps to”, “use” or “show” must be undertaken in the workplace during learners’ real work activity and observed by the assessor (unless the use of simulation is specifically allowed). Learners can practice and develop their skills in a classroom or similar setting but most of the assessment evidence must be collected during real work activity.

The Care Certificate plays a vital role in raising the standard of care by ensuring that care workers are fully equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to provide compassionate, high-quality support. As a result, service users benefit from safer, more respectful, and person-centred care that truly enhances their quality of life.