When hiring Healthcare Assistants it is recommended to look for the following qualifications:
Diploma in Health and Social Care Level 2 – City and Guilds
Level two is for those in the field looking to increase responsibilities or those wishing to work in care. Assessments are done at work/involve work-based scenarios. HCAs at this level have skills in working with babies and children and supporting those with disabilities.
Diploma in Health and Social Care Level 3 – City and Guilds
Taken by those wishing to climb to a senior HCA position. They work without supervision. Assessments are handled similarly to that of level 2.
CACHE – Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education
The leading specialist awarding organisation for the sector, CACHE qualifications span levels 1-5, and are for those working with children, young people and adults in health and social work settings. Also offered are specialist courses such as Paediatric First Aid, Assisting and Moving of Individuals and Food Safety and Nutrition, available in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. These courses help those entering as apprentices.
Qualifications gained through apprenticeships
For applicants without the requisite qualifications, an apprenticeship can help gain necessary experience and qualifications. Both City and Guilds and CACHE offer excellent courses.
Open University (OU) qualifications
Policy, theory and practice are covered in OU courses. The Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice is an undergraduate programme, developing skills in IT, numeracy and literacy.
NVQ Certificate or Diploma in Health and Social Care (Level 2 or 3)
Nationally recognized and work-based, level 2 is for home care assistants, care workers supporting individuals, community support assistants and residential/day care assistants. Level 3 is for senior candidates with supervisory or development responsibilities.
