Unit 1 – Overview and Structure of the Health and Social Care Sector

Objective: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the health and social care industry, its objectives, functions, and the range of organisations involved in delivering these services. Explore the key challenges currently affecting the sector in a selected country.

Qualification Level: 3
Credits: 12
Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 50

Core Topics:

Purpose and structure of health and social care services
Funding models and sector scale
Services across different stages of life
Specialised areas within the sector
Public health initiatives and contemporary sector challenges

Unit 2 – Principles, Values, and Regulation in Health and Social Care

Objective: Build knowledge of the essential principles, values, legal frameworks, and regulations that guide practice within the health and social care field, specific to a chosen country.

Qualification Level: 3
Credits: 10
Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 60

Core Topics:

Government policies and their influence on care provision
Key legislation and guidance impacting care services
Fundamental care values and principles
Ethical responsibilities and regulatory compliance

Unit 3 – Human Growth and Development

Objective: Explore the stages of human growth and development and understand how these phases interrelate, with a focus on different life stages and their unique challenges.

Qualification Level: 3
Credits: 5
Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 28

Core Topics:

Stages and milestones of growth and development
Life factors and experiences influencing development
Physical and mental changes during aging
The impact of transitions and major life events

Unit 4 – Working in Health and Social Care

Objective: Learn about the essential elements needed to deliver consistent, safe, and effective care, with a focus on person-centred practices, safeguarding, and effective communication.

Qualification Level: 3
Credits: 15
Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 80

Core Topics:

Person-centred care and safeguarding protocols
Effective communication strategies and overcoming barriers
Infection control measures
Team dynamics and working relationships
Care planning and safe medication administration

Unit 5 – Research in Health and Social Care

Objective: Acquire vital academic and research skills necessary for the health and social care sector, with a focus on conducting research and presenting findings in a professional manner.

Qualification Level: 3
Credits: 10
Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 55

Core Topics:

The role of research in evidence-based practice
Selecting and justifying research topics
Conducting research projects
Collecting, analysing, and presenting data

Unit 6 – Personal and Professional Development in Health and Social Care

Objective: Cultivate the skills and knowledge required to plan and pursue personal and professional growth within the health and social care sector, whether for further study or career progression.

Qualification Level: 3
Credits: 8
Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 30

Core Topics:

Career development and progression opportunities
Professional standards for development
Reflective practice and its influence on improvement
Creating a personal and professional development plan

Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care