This is the health and social care sectors professional qualification for care assistants, HCAs, care and support workers and anyone in the front-line that delivers hands-on care directly to people. It is the recognised minimum qualification advised by CQC and Skills for Care and is equally suited for those who are new to care work as well as those who have been in the sector for many years.

The qualification gives candidates an essential portfolio of skills. The variety of units available makes it equally well suited for carers working in a variety of care homes, or in the community. It is suitable for all carers working with older people, families or people with dementia or learning disabilities. Candidates have the opportunity to take a general qualification in health and social care, or they may choose to specialise in dementia care,
or learning disabilities.