The care certificate is a framework that sets out the standards of care that workers in England should meet. It is designed to help new social care workers, or those moving into social care from another sector, to gain the skills and knowledge they need to deliver high-quality care.
The care certificate was developed by Skills for Care, in partnership with a range of employers, providers and other organisations. It replaces the Common Induction Standards and the National Minimum Training Standards for social care workers.
The care certificate has three key aims:
To provide a clear framework for the induction of new social care workers
To improve the quality of social care
To give social care workers the confidence that they are meeting national standards
The care certificate is made up of 15 standards that social care workers must achieve. These standards cover a range of topics, from communication and values to infection control and safety.
Social care workers can achieve the care certificate by completing a training programme that covers all of the standards. Alternatively, they can demonstrate that they have already met the standards through their previous work or studies.
Once a social care worker has achieved the care certificate, they will be able to apply for a job in a social care setting with the confidence that they have the skills and knowledge they need to do the job well.