This is a new Level 2 qualification, equivalent to a GCSE.
It's been developed from the widely used Care Certificate standards and is part of the commitment to recognise the care workforce for the professional career it is.
Currently over 50% of the workforce do not hold an accredited qualification. The sector is filled with experienced and committed colleagues who deserve to be acknowledged for the skilled care they provide.
The aim is the Level 2 ASC certificate will help staff to gain a recognised qualification. This will confirm care work as a career and help to promote recruitment and retain talent.
The intention is for the whole sector to work towards a Level 2 qualification for staff.
This new qualification will compliment current Level 2 learning programmes and will be viewed by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in line with the existing Level 2 options.
Eligibility for qualification
To enrol on the Level 2 ASC certificate you must be aged 19 or older. This is because of Government policy on the continuation of study of English and Mathematics, which means all students must study maths until the age of 18.
For this qualification, funding is available for non-regulated members in direct care roles, including agency staff.
It's also available to any other roles where staff work with people who need the care and support of the ASC workforce in England.
Employees must be working for an employer, including local authorities, who meet all of the following criteria:
- provides an ASC service
- directly employs care staff in England
- is registered on the ASC workforce data set (ASC-WDS)
Organisations can claim for internal and external training.