Hi, I have been doing care work for 10 years now and have my NVQ2 in health and social care. I am due to start a new job with a new care company but they are saying I need to do a care certificate. I don’t think this is right. Can you answer this for me? Thank you

Answered by Sheila Scott

Dear Sarah,

The answer to your question is slightly more complex than you would expect. I am assuming that you are moving jobs within the same category of care.

On their website Skills for Care says this about who should undertake the Care Certificate:

“Who is it for?”

Designed with non-regulated workers in mind, the Care Certificate gives everyone the confidence that workers have the same induction – learning the same skills, knowledge and behaviours to provide compassionate, safe and high-quality care and support.

The Care Certificate is the start of the career journey and is only one element of the training and education that will make them ready to practice within their specific sector.

Although the Care Certificate is designed for new staff, it also offers opportunities for existing staff to refresh or improve their knowledge.”

http://www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Learning-development/Care-Certificate/Care-Certificate.aspx

Given your qualification and experience, I would not expect that you would be routinely expected to undertake the full Care Certificate but it is incumbent upon the employer to satisfy themselves that you have the competencies required by the Care Certificate.

The way that every care provider operates is different so you will still need to undertake induction training relating to your new provider.

Best wishes.

Sheila