The care certificate is a way of recognising the skills that care workers need to do their job. It’s also a way of making sure they have the right values and behaviours to care for people.
The care certificate has 15 standards that cover the skills and knowledge that someone working in care needs. These standards are based on what good care looks like.
The care certificate is for anyone who works in social care in England. This includes people who work in:
residential care homes
home care agencies
supported living services
day services
children’s services.
The care certificate is voluntary. This means that you don’t have to do it if you don’t want to. But if you’re new to care, or returning to care after a break, your employer may ask you to do the care certificate.
Doing the care certificate shows your employer that you have the skills and knowledge to do your job. It can also help you get into other roles in social care.
If you’re thinking about a career in social care, or you’re already working in social care, the care certificate is a good way to show your commitment to the job.