Health & Social Care

    NOCN
    Vocational

    Specification: 610/6679/5

    The NOCN Vocational Health & Social Care specification covers 406 topics with 809 learning objectives (610/6679/5). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

    406

    Units

    809

    Learning Outcomes

    1628

    Assessment Guidance

    1752

    Key Skills

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    Key Features

    • Master key concepts
    • Develop exam technique
    • Apply knowledge effectively

    Common Exam Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

    • •Failing to integrate theory with practice.
    • •Not demonstrating sufficient depth of knowledge.
    • •Learners often confuse hazard and risk, defining a hazard as the likelihood of harm rather than something with the potential to cause harm.
    • •Many fail to recognise that safety signs require specific actions (e.g., mandatory signs mean ‘must do’) rather than just being advisory.
    • •A common oversight is neglecting to check controls are actually effective, such as assuming a machine guard is adequate without testing it.
    • •Confusing operational management with strategic management: students often focus on high-level vision without detailing day-to-day resource coordination, staff deployment, or process oversight.
    • •Producing generic policies that are not tailored to the specific risks and needs of domestic abuse services, such as missing safety planning protocols or partner notification procedures.
    • •Failing to define what 'under-representation' means for their specific service context, leading to vague monitoring that doesn't capture intersectional barriers (e.g., LGBTQ+ survivors, disabled women, BAME communities).

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •Use real clinical examples to illustrate your understanding.
    • •Ensure you meet all competency criteria.
    • •In assessment, always reference the specific health and safety legislation applicable to the hazard (e.g., COSHH for chemicals) to demonstrate deep understanding.
    • •When describing controls, use the hierarchy of control in order (eliminate, substitute, engineering controls, administrative, PPE) to systematically show how risks are reduced.
    • •For practical observation, verbalise your actions as you follow safety signs and procedures to provide clear evidence to the assessor.
    • •Use a reflective practice model (e.g., Gibbs, Kolb) to critically evaluate your operational decisions, linking them to service user outcomes and theoretical knowledge.
    • •For policy production, include a completed policy document with a version control table, consultation records, and an equality impact assessment to demonstrate thoroughness.
    • •When monitoring under-representation, present disaggregated data visually (charts, tables) and annotate with explanatory notes on how you identified gaps and planned interventions.

    Qualification Units

    406 units

    How this qualification is graded

    Vocational qualifications are marked against criteria, not an exam percentage. Each unit is assessed across three bands - build up from Pass by applying your knowledge to realistic workplace scenarios.

    Pass

    Accurately describe and explain the core knowledge for the unit and link it to the given scenario.

    Merit

    Apply and analyse that knowledge in detail, showing why it matters in the workplace context.

    Distinction

    Evaluate and justify decisions, weigh up alternatives and make well-reasoned professional recommendations.

    NOCN Level 6 End Point Assessment Enhanced Clinical Practitioner V1.2 - Core Content

    This end point assessment covers core content for Enhanced Clinical Practitioners at Level 6, focusing on key principles, practical application, and competency in clinical skills.

    NOCN Level 6 End Point Assessment Enhanced Clinical Practitioner V1.2

    3 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Awareness of Hazards in the Workplace

    This subtopic focuses on developing the learner's ability to identify, assess, and respond to workplace hazards in line with health and safety legislation and organisational procedures. It reinforces the practical application of hazard recognition, the use of control measures, and the importance of following safety signs and instructions to prevent harm. Mastery ensures competence in maintaining a safe working environment and contributes to regulatory compliance.

    NOCN Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Operational Management for Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls

    This subtopic equips managers with the skills to oversee safe, effective service delivery for domestic abuse and violence against women and girls. It covers strategic policy development, inclusive practice monitoring, integrated case management, survivor engagement, and volunteer coordination, all grounded in operational management principles.

    NOCN Level 5 Award in Managing Direct Service Provision for Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Principles of Safer Moving and Handling

    This subtopic establishes the foundational principles underpinning safe moving and handling practices within health and social care settings. It emphasises the integration of health, safety, and dignity considerations for individuals being moved, while exploring the critical role of risk assessment and personalised handling plans in mitigating risk. Learners are expected to apply these principles alongside safe equipment usage to protect both service users and care workers from harm.

    NOCN Level 2 Award in Moving and Handling in Health & Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Health and Safety in the Workplace (Health and Social Care)

    This unit covers the essential requirements for maintaining health, safety and welfare in health and social care settings, including the legal framework, risk assessment processes, and hygiene practices. It focuses on practical application to ensure a safe environment for service users, staff, and visitors.

    NOCN Level 2 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace (Health & Social Care)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Understand Post-Addiction Recovery and Relapse Prevention

    This subtopic focuses on sustaining long-term recovery from addiction through a person-centred approach that respects individual autonomy and goals. It covers the principles of self-management, where individuals are empowered to take active control of their recovery journey, and the strategies for relapse prevention, including identifying triggers, developing coping skills, and building support networks. These concepts are practically applied in health and social care settings to design holistic aftercare plans that reduce the risk of returning to addictive behaviours.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Addiction Recovery in Health and Social Care

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Assessing and Addressing Unconscious Bias in Decision-Making

    This subtopic explores how unconscious biases influence decision-making in social care, highlighting their potential to lead to inequitable outcomes. It equips learners with techniques to identify personal and systemic biases and develop practical strategies to mitigate their impact, ensuring fair and person-centred care delivery. Understanding these dynamics is essential for promoting equality and improving service user experiences.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Addressing Unconscious Bias in Social Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    ​​NOCN Level 5 End Point Assessment Leader in Adult Care v1.1​ - Core Content

    This subtopic covers the core responsibilities and competencies required of a Leader in Adult Care, focusing on the application of leadership theories, management practices, and professional standards to drive high-quality care delivery. Learners explore how to effectively lead teams, ensure regulatory compliance, and embed person-centred values in all aspects of service provision, preparing them to demonstrate competency in the End-Point Assessment.

    ​​NOCN Level 5 End Point Assessment Leader in Adult Care v1.1​

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Youth Support Worker V1.0 - Core Content

    This subtopic establishes the foundational knowledge and competence required for effective youth support work, encompassing safeguarding legislation, person-centred practice, communication techniques, and professional boundaries. It integrates theory with practical application to ensure learners can assess needs, plan interventions, and evaluate outcomes in real-world settings, aligning with the NOCN Level 3 Youth Support Worker End-Point Assessment standards.

    NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Youth Support Worker V1.0

    6 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Wellbeing and Holistic Therapist V1.0 - Core Content

    This subtopic focuses on the integrated knowledge and demonstrated competence required for safe, client-centred practice as a wellbeing and holistic therapist. It encompasses core principles of holistic health, professional ethics, practical therapy skills, and the ability to critically reflect on one's own practice to meet endpoint assessment standards.

    NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Wellbeing and Holistic Therapist V1.0

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    NOCN Level 2 End Point Assessment Adult Care Worker V1.1 - Core Content

    The core content for the Level 2 Adult Care Worker End-Point Assessment focuses on the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to provide safe, compassionate, and person-centred care. It encompasses the principles outlined in the Care Certificate and the Code of Conduct for Healthcare Support Workers, ensuring that apprentices can apply their learning in real-world care settings to support individuals’ physical, emotional, and social well-being.

    NOCN Level 2 End Point Assessment Adult Care Worker V1.1

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Communication and Interaction with Individuals with Learning Disabilities

    This subtopic focuses on the critical role of person-centred communication when supporting individuals with learning disabilities, emphasising the need to tailor interactions to each person's unique preferences, abilities, and challenges. It covers practical techniques such as using visual aids, simplified language, and assistive technology, as well as strategies for creating enabling environments that foster understanding and participation. The content also examines systemic barriers within social care settings that can impede effective communication, equipping learners with the analytical skills to identify and advocate for improvements in service accessibility.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Emergency First Aid in the Workplace

    This subtopic covers the essential first aid interventions for common workplace emergencies, including assessing incidents, managing unresponsive casualties, choking, bleeding, shock, and minor injuries, while also clarifying the legal and ethical responsibilities of a first aider. Learners will develop the practical skills and confidence to provide immediate care, ensuring safety and effective communication until professional help arrives.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work, NOCN Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work

    2 learning outcomes22 guidance points2 criteria

    Developing Interaction Skills for Information, Advice or Guidance

    This element focuses on developing the interpersonal skills necessary for effective information, advice or guidance (IAG) delivery. It explores how communication, including active listening and questioning, forms the foundation of client interactions, and examines the practitioner's self-awareness regarding personal values and the ethical imperatives of confidentiality and impartiality. Learners will learn to plan their own skill development to meet professional standards.

    NOCN Level 2 Award in Information, Advice or Guidance, NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    2 learning outcomes15 guidance points2 criteria

    Domestic Abuse Partnerships and a Coordinated Community Response

    This subtopic examines the multi-agency frameworks essential for tackling domestic abuse through a Coordinated Community Response (CCR). It critically analyses the Duluth model's origins and key features, its adaptation within the UK context, and the practical skills required for effective interagency collaboration. Learners explore how specialist partnerships enhance safety for high-risk victims, emphasising the integration of criminal justice, health, and voluntary sector services.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Preventing and Tackling Domestic Abuse

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Emergency Paediatric First Aid

    This element introduces the essential emergency paediatric first aid skills required for those caring for infants and children. Learners develop the theoretical understanding and practical competence to manage life-threatening scenarios, including unconsciousness, choking, bleeding, and shock, while acting within the legal and safe boundaries of a paediatric first aider's role. Mastery of these skills ensures a confident and systematic response to emergencies in early years settings, directly supporting child safety and regulatory compliance.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid, NOCN Level 3 Award in Emergency Paediatric First Aid

    2 learning outcomes19 guidance points2 criteria

    Mental Health Awareness

    This element introduces learners to fundamental mental health concepts, key legislation safeguarding individuals, and practical strategies for maintaining personal mental wellbeing. It equips learners to recognize crisis situations, reduce stigma, and navigate appropriate support services, promoting a proactive approach to mental health in vocational care contexts.

    NOCN Level 2 Award in Mental Health Awareness, NOCN Level 3 Award in First Aid for Mental Health

    2 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

    Administer Medication to Individuals and Monitor the Effects

    This subtopic addresses the safe and effective administration of medication within adult care settings, encompassing legal frameworks, common drug types, and practical procedures. Learners develop competence in preparing, administering, and monitoring medication, ensuring individuals' wellbeing through adherence to protocols and recognition of potential adverse effects.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes14 guidance points

    Behaviour in the Context of Dementia

    This element explores how changes in the brain due to dementia can affect behaviour, emphasising that behaviour is a primary form of communication when verbal skills decline. It examines practical, compassionate responses to behaviours such as agitation or aggression, and highlights the critical role of emotional support in maintaining the individual’s well-being and dignity.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Dementia Care

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Basic Life Support and Using an Automated External Defibrillator

    This element covers the essential skills and knowledge required to provide basic life support (BLS) to adults, including the assessment of responsiveness, airway management, rescue breathing, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It also focuses on the safe and effective use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), integrating defibrillation into the chain of survival. Learners gain hands-on competence in managing both breathing and non-breathing unresponsive casualties, ensuring they can respond confidently and correctly in real-life emergencies.

    NOCN Level 2 Award in Basic Life Support and the Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Awareness of protection and safeguarding in health and social care adults and children and young people, early years and childcare

    This element introduces the fundamental principles of safeguarding, focusing on recognizing signs of abuse and neglect in adults, children, and young people. It emphasizes the importance of following organizational policies and procedures to protect vulnerable individuals from harm. Learners will gain practical awareness of their role and responsibilities in promoting a safe environment within health, social care, and early years settings.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Introduction to the Role of a McKenzie Friend

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental role of a McKenzie Friend, a non-lawyer who provides moral support, takes notes, and offers practical assistance to litigants in person in legal proceedings. It covers the professional boundaries and ethical conduct expected, including the critical distinction between giving legal advice (reserved to lawyers) and providing information or guidance. The application of data protection rules ensures client confidentiality and secure record keeping in line with current legislation.

    NOCN Level 2 Award for McKenzie Friends

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Awareness of communication in adult social care

    This subtopic explores the fundamental communication skills required in adult social care, including verbal and non-verbal techniques, active listening, and adapting communication to individual needs. Learners will understand how to identify and meet the diverse communication and language needs of individuals, such as those with hearing impairments or language barriers. The importance of accurate, confidential, and timely record keeping is also covered, ensuring effective care delivery and compliance with legal requirements.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    ​​NOCN Level 5 End Point Assessment Leader in Adult Care​ V1.0 - Core Content

    This subtopic covers the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to effectively perform the role of an End-Point Assessor (EPA) for the Level 5 Leader in Adult Care standard. It equips learners with a thorough understanding of the apprenticeship assessment cycle, including planning, evidence review, professional discussion, and final decision-making, while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and impartiality. The practical application focuses on making valid, reliable, and fair judgements that uphold the integrity of the high-stakes EPA process.

    ​​NOCN Level 5 End Point Assessment Leader in Adult Care​ V1.0

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to Delivering Information, Advice or Guidance to Service Users

    This subtopic introduces learners to the foundational principles of delivering information, advice, and guidance (IAG) to service users in health and social care contexts. It covers the distinctions between information, advice, and guidance, the critical role of effective communication, professional conduct, and the processes of referral, signposting, and record keeping to ensure safe and ethical practice.

    NOCN Level 1 Introductory Award in Delivering Information, Advice or Guidance to Service Users

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    End of life and dementia care

    This subtopic addresses the unique and complex needs of individuals with dementia who are approaching the end of life, emphasizing that dementia is a life-limiting condition requiring proactive palliative care. It integrates person-centred dementia care with end-of-life principles to ensure comfort, dignity, and emotional well-being, while also recognising the vital role of supporting family carers through their own distress and bereavement. Practical application involves adapting communication, managing symptoms like pain and agitation, and facilitating advance care planning in line with the Mental Capacity Act.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England), NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Understanding Dilemmas and Public Concerns in Adult Health and Social Care

    This element explores the complex ethical challenges and dilemmas faced in adult health and social care, such as balancing individual autonomy with safeguarding responsibilities. It examines how public concerns, often arising from high-profile cases, influence practice, policy, and legislation. Learners will analyse the impact of safeguarding reviews on practice, understanding how lessons learned drive improvements in care quality and protection.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Dignity and Safeguarding in Adult Health and Social Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understand the Principles of Manual Handling

    This subtopic covers the foundational principles of safe manual handling, focusing on legal, ergonomic, and risk assessment aspects. Learners will explore how to prevent injuries, comply with regulations, and use equipment safely, applying these principles in health and social care settings to protect both staff and service users.

    NOCN Level 2 Award in the Principles of Manual Handling in a Health and Social Care Setting

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Implementing Technology in Adult Social Care

    This element equips learners with the skills to strategically plan, evaluate, and adopt digital solutions in adult social care, ensuring alignment with person-centred outcomes. It emphasises the critical role of external partnerships, regulatory frameworks, and continuous improvement in sustaining effective technology implementation.

    NOCN Level 5 Award in Understanding Digital Leadership in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Common Mental Health Conditions

    This subtopic focuses on equipping mental health first aiders with the knowledge to recognise the most prevalent mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and substance-related disorders. It emphasises understanding characteristic signs, symptoms, and behaviours as they manifest in health and social care settings, enabling timely and appropriate non-clinical support. The content bridges theoretical understanding with practical application, ensuring learners can respond effectively within the boundaries of a first aider's role, promoting early intervention and reducing stigma.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in First Aid for Mental Health

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    ​​NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Community Health and Wellbeing Worker V1.1 - Core Content

    This core content covers the essential knowledge and skills required for the Community Health and Wellbeing Worker role, focusing on person-centred approaches to promoting health, preventing illness, and reducing health inequalities. It provides the foundation for holistic practice, integrating principles of safeguarding, effective communication, and collaborative working to empower individuals and communities to manage their own wellbeing.

    ​​NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Community Health and Wellbeing Worker V1.1

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Advocacy in Adult Care

    This element examines the critical role of advocacy in adult care, focusing on its purpose to empower individuals, uphold their rights, and ensure their voices shape care decisions. It explores how advocacy operates within key legal frameworks such as the Care Act 2014 and Mental Capacity Act 2005, and emphasises the leadership responsibility to embed advocacy culture and statutory compliance in care settings.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Applying Interaction Skills for Information, Advice or Guidance

    This element focuses on developing the practitioner’s ability to effectively apply interaction skills when delivering information, advice or guidance. It covers how to clearly explain the service and the practitioner’s role, secure client agreement, and uphold confidentiality, data protection and impartiality. Through effective communication, practitioners explore a range of options with clients, help them reach informed decisions, and reflect on their own practice to identify personal development needs.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Information, Advice or Guidance , NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    2 learning outcomes24 guidance points2 criteria

    Managing Joint Mediation Sessions

    This element focuses on the core competencies required to facilitate face-to-face discussions between disputing parties, ensuring a fair and structured environment where communication can lead to resolution. Learners develop practical skills in maintaining impartiality, managing emotional tension, and guiding participants towards mutually acceptable outcomes, which are directly applicable in health and social care contexts such as resolving service user complaints or workplace disputes.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Mediation Skills

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Calculations

    This subtopic focuses on essential numerical skills required in health sciences, including operations with whole numbers and decimals, fractions, percentages, ratios, and formula evaluations. These skills underpin accurate medication administration, clinical data interpretation, and health-related calculations, ensuring patient safety and professional competence.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    8 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Benefits Advice Work - Practice

    This element focuses on the practical application of benefits advice, enabling learners to identify and explain the main categories of welfare benefits, understand their key features, and effectively support individuals in claiming appropriate benefits or funds. It develops the knowledge required to navigate the benefits system accurately and ethically within an information, advice, or guidance role.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Community Health and Wellbeing Worker V1.0 - Core Content

    This subtopic covers the essential knowledge and skills required for a Community Health and Wellbeing Worker to effectively support individuals and communities. It focuses on integrating key principles such as person-centred care, safeguarding, and health promotion into practical, real-world contexts. Learners will explore how to apply these principles to empower clients, work collaboratively with other services, and adhere to professional standards.

    NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Community Health and Wellbeing Worker V1.0

    6 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    NOCN Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship Assessment Qualification for FA0007 Health and Social Care v1.0​ - Core Content

    This subtopic forms the foundation of the Level 2 Health and Social Care apprenticeship, covering essential principles such as duty of care, person-centred support, safeguarding, effective communication, and health and safety. It ensures learners can transfer theoretical understanding into real-world care settings, demonstrating competence in core skills that meet regulatory and organisational standards.

    NOCN Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship Assessment Qualification for FA0007 Health and Social Care v1.0​

    3 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Nature and Impact of Domestic Abuse

    This element explores the multifaceted nature of domestic abuse, including the patterns of power and control in abusive relationships, and examines the wide-ranging physical, emotional, and psychological impacts on victims. It also considers the prevalence of sexual abuse within domestic contexts and the importance of understanding local service provision to effectively support those affected.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Preventing and Tackling Domestic Abuse

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Applying Theory to Personal Practice

    This element focuses on the critical skill of reflective practice, requiring learners to evaluate their current understanding of autism, neurodivergence, and neurodiversity, and how this knowledge influences their professional conduct. It emphasizes the creation, review, and continuous refinement of personal development action plans, ensuring that practice evolves in line with emerging insights and the neurodiversity paradigm. Mastery involves demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning and the ability to translate theoretical concepts into tangible improvements in support strategies.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understanding Bereavement and Grief in End of Life Care

    This subtopic explores the psychological and emotional dimensions of bereavement and grief within end of life care. It covers theoretical models of loss, the unique forms of grief experienced in palliative contexts, and practical strategies for supporting bereaved individuals, while also emphasizing the critical importance of self-care and professional boundaries for care workers.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Awareness of Safeguarding and Prevent

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental principles of safeguarding children and adults at risk, and the statutory Prevent Duty. It equips them to recognise signs of abuse and neglect, understand reporting procedures, and appreciate their role within an organisational safeguarding framework. The knowledge gained is essential for maintaining a safe environment in any health, social care, or community setting.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Awareness of Safeguarding and Prevent

    4 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    NOCN Level 6 End Point Assessment Enhanced Clinical Practitioner V1.1 - Core Content

    The core content of the Enhanced Clinical Practitioner Level 6 End-Point Assessment focuses on consolidating advanced clinical skills, autonomous decision-making, and leadership within health and social care. It encompasses comprehensive patient assessment, evidence-based management of complex presentations, and the integration of legal, ethical, and professional standards into daily practice. Mastery of these elements ensures practitioners can safely and effectively deliver enhanced care across diverse settings.

    NOCN Level 6 End Point Assessment Enhanced Clinical Practitioner V1.1

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Lead Adult Care Worker V1.1 - Core Content

    This subtopic covers the core knowledge and skills required for a Lead Adult Care Worker, focussing on leadership, person-centred care, safeguarding, communication, and professional practice. Learners must demonstrate an ability to lead a team, manage complex care situations, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards while promoting dignity and independence. The content prepares apprentices for the End-Point Assessment by integrating theoretical understanding with practical competence in adult care settings.

    NOCN Level 3 End Point Assessment Lead Adult Care Worker V1.1

    6 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Adult Safeguarding

    Adult Safeguarding within the NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate equips learners with the knowledge to protect adults at risk from abuse and harm. It covers the fundamental principles, practical strategies to minimise abuse likelihood, appropriate responses to disclosures, and the role of local and national frameworks. Learners also explore restrictive practices, emphasising legal and ethical considerations to balance safety with individual rights.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Handling Medicines: Record Keeping & Auditing

    This subtopic focuses on the critical processes of accurate record keeping and auditing in medication handling within health and social care settings. Learners will examine how medication information is documented, the purpose and methods of auditing for safety and compliance, and the safeguarding roles of various professionals. Practical application is emphasised through analysing a fictitious case study to identify recording errors and recommend improvements.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Safe Handling of Medicines

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Anatomy, physiology and pathology of the eye

    This subtopic covers the basic anatomy of the eye, focusing on structures relevant to health screening and the pathophysiology of diabetes in the eye. It explores the development and features of diabetic retinopathy, anterior eye changes associated with diabetes, and the recognition of other significant retinal diseases, enabling screeners to make accurate clinical judgments.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Assist in receiving, handling and dispatching clinical specimens

    This subtopic covers the essential protocols for safe and effective management of clinical specimens in a healthcare support setting, emphasizing infection control, correct use of containers and transport media, and accurate labeling to ensure diagnostic integrity and patient safety. It equips learners with the skills to assist colleagues in adhering to standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Health Psychology

    Health Psychology explores the interplay between psychological processes and physical health, introducing learners to key models that explain how biological, psychological, and social factors influence well-being. It contrasts the traditional medical model, which focuses solely on biological causes, with the holistic bio-psychosocial model, equipping students to understand patient behaviour and contribute to person-centred care in health and social care settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Prepare for Diabetic Retinopathy Screening

    This element covers the essential preparatory steps for diabetic retinopathy screening, including setting up a safe and accessible environment, addressing individual patient needs, and performing accurate visual acuity measurements. Learners must understand the purpose of pupil dilation, the pharmacology of mydriatic eye drops, their contraindications, and safe administration techniques. Mastery of these skills ensures effective screening and patient comfort while adhering to clinical governance standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Developing and Supporting Others

    This element focuses on the systematic approach to learning and professional development in adult care, emphasising its impact on service quality and staff competence. Learners explore how to identify development needs, plan tailored activities, provide effective support, and critically evaluate outcomes to ensure continuous improvement in care practices.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Communication in care settings

    This element covers the essential role of communication in care settings, focusing on why it is vital for promoting dignity, safety, and person-centred support. It explores how to meet diverse communication and language needs, overcome barriers such as sensory impairments or cultural differences, and apply confidentiality principles, including data protection legislation. Mastery of these skills ensures that care workers can build effective relationships, deliver high-quality care, and uphold individuals' rights and preferences.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Managing, Accessing and Creating Information Resources in Information, Advice or Guidance

    This subtopic equips learners with the skills to effectively manage information resources within an Information, Advice or Guidance (IAG) setting, focusing on the systematic organisation, accessibility, and ethical handling of information. It covers the strategic reasons for resource management, the use of diverse media formats to meet varying client needs, and the processes of acquiring, creating, and maintaining up-to-date materials. Mastery of this element is crucial for delivering compliant, client-centred advice that adheres to professional Codes of Practice and principles of equality and confidentiality.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Operating within Networks to Support Information, Advice or Guidance

    This subtopic explores how practitioners within information, advice or guidance (IAG) services utilize professional networks to enhance client support, ensuring adherence to ethical codes and principles. It examines the significance of collaborative relationships, both internal and external, and the distinct responsibilities of various network members, from frontline advisors to specialist referral partners. Effective networking ensures clients receive comprehensive, accurate, and confidential guidance tailored to their needs.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance, NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    2 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

    Digital Skills in Adult Care

    This element explores how leaders in adult care can systematically identify, foster, and evaluate the digital competencies of individuals and staff. It addresses the integration of technology in person-centred care, from enabling individuals to use digital tools for independence to ensuring teams adhere to data protection and ethical standards. Effectively leading digital practice requires strategic planning, ongoing support, and evidence-based evaluation of outcomes.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Nutrition and Hydration

    This element covers the essential knowledge and skills required to promote safe and effective nutrition and hydration in adult social care settings. It integrates food safety principles with an understanding of dietary needs and practical support techniques to maintain individuals’ health and well-being. Learners will explore how to assist with eating and drinking while respecting dignity, preferences, and cultural needs.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Contribute to monitoring the health of individuals affected by health conditions

    This subtopic focuses on the essential skills and knowledge required to effectively monitor individuals with health conditions in care settings. It encompasses understanding monitoring procedures, conducting systematic observations, accurately recording and reporting findings, and taking appropriate action when changes occur. Practical application involves using monitoring tools, recognizing deviations from baseline, and ensuring timely communication with healthcare professionals to maintain person-centred care.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England), NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    2 learning outcomes15 guidance points2 criteria

    Diabetes Awareness

    This subtopic explores the fundamental aspects of diabetes care within adult care settings, equipping learners with knowledge of diabetes types, causes, and implications. It emphasises a person-centred approach, considering individual experiences and the importance of monitoring to manage diabetes effectively and understand its links with other conditions. Learners will develop skills to support individuals holistically, promoting independence and wellbeing.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England) , NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Human Biology

    This subtopic provides foundational knowledge of human biology essential for health sciences careers, covering cellular structure and function, major body systems, and disease causation. Learners apply this understanding to recognize how biological principles underpin health, illness, and effective care delivery.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Prepare for diabetic retinopathy screening

    This subtopic equips learners with the fundamental competencies required to safely and effectively prepare for diabetic retinopathy screening. It covers the preparation of both the clinical environment and the individual, encompassing infection control, patient communication, and adaptation to diverse needs. Mastery of visual acuity measurement and pharmacological pupil dilation is essential to acquire high-quality retinal images and ensure a person-centred screening experience.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Assist in testing individuals' abilities prior to planning physical activities

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with the skills to assist in pre-exercise assessments, ensuring safe, individualised physical activity plans. It integrates understanding of legislation, health considerations, and motivation to prepare for and support testing procedures. Practical outcomes include setting up environments, aiding practitioners, and accurately documenting findings to inform person-centred care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Signposting and Referral - Information, Advice or Guidance

    This subtopic focuses on the critical distinction between signposting (providing information to enable clients to access services independently) and referral (directly connecting clients with other agencies, often with information sharing). It equips practitioners with the skills to decide when each is appropriate, based on client needs, agency remit, and professional boundaries, ensuring seamless support. Mastery of these processes is essential for delivering holistic information, advice, or guidance while maintaining client autonomy and safeguarding.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Personal Development

    This element covers the essential process of personal development planning within adult social care, emphasising the learner's responsibility to identify their own learning needs and agree a structured plan with their supervisor. Practical application includes using reflective practice and continuous feedback to enhance knowledge, skills, and understanding, ensuring care delivery meets regulatory standards and improves outcomes for service users.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Effective Communication

    This subtopic explores the pivotal role of communication in adult care leadership, emphasizing how skilled interactions build trust, enhance person-centred outcomes, and underpin effective team management. Learners will examine strategies for managing and resolving conflict constructively, applying theoretical models to real-world scenarios, and developing inclusive communication practices that align with regulatory requirements and promote dignity, respect, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. Mastery of these skills directly impacts service user safety, staff morale, and the overall quality of care delivery.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Organising and Administering Job Brokerage

    This subtopic focuses on the practical coordination of job brokerage, where practitioners match job seekers with employers while networking with external agencies, adhering to legal frameworks, and maintaining accurate records. It covers the promotion of services to stakeholders and the management of conflicts arising from differing interests, which are critical skills in information, advice, and guidance roles within health and social care contexts.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Digital Care Planning and Record Keeping

    This element explores the essential purpose of digital care planning and record keeping within adult care settings, focusing on person-centred practice, legal compliance, and effective information sharing. It also addresses the practical requirements for establishing and maintaining high-quality digital records, including data accuracy, security, and confidentiality, to enhance care delivery and meet Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Assist in the administration of medication

    This subtopic equips learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills to safely assist in the administration of medication within a healthcare support role, in alignment with current UK legislation and local policies. It focuses on understanding legal responsibilities, adhering to robust procedures, maintaining individual safety, and accurately managing medication records to ensure the well-being of individuals receiving care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support, NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    2 learning outcomes19 guidance points2 criteria

    Contribute to support of positive risk-taking for individuals

    This element addresses how care staff can effectively support individuals to take positive risks that enhance their independence and quality of life. It emphasises the value of person-centred risk assessments, where the individual's choices and aspirations are central, and how to balance empowerment with the duty of care. Practical application involves using legislation such as the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and Care Act 2014 to inform decisions and documentation.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Skills for Advice Providers

    This subtopic equips learners with essential competencies for effective advice provision, including understanding social policy frameworks, conducting structured advice interviews, empowering clients through action planning, negotiating on their behalf, and leveraging information resources to meet diverse needs. Practical application involves delivering impartial, client-centered guidance while adhering to policy and ethical standards, ensuring positive outcomes for individuals seeking support.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Immunology

    This subtopic explores the body's defence mechanisms against pathogens, examining the structure and function of key immune components such as white blood cells, lymphatic organs, and chemical barriers. It details the coordinated innate and adaptive immune responses, including humoral and cell-mediated pathways, and reviews common immune disorders like allergies, autoimmune diseases, and immunodeficiencies. Understanding these principles is essential for health science roles where infection control, vaccination, and patient care depend on immune competence.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Prepare to undertake a newborn hearing screen

    This subtopic covers the essential preparatory steps for conducting a newborn hearing screen within a national screening programme. It emphasises the accurate identification of the eligible newborn population, effective communication with parents to gain informed consent, and the systematic assessment of risk factors. Practical application includes setting up the clinical environment and equipment to ensure reliable screening results in a family-centred manner.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Human Rights

    This subtopic equips leaders in adult care with the expertise to embed equality, diversity, inclusion, and human rights into the fabric of service delivery. It focuses on moving beyond legal compliance to foster a culture where these principles are actively promoted and celebrated, ensuring person-centred care that respects individual identity and upholds dignity. Learners will develop strategic skills to influence organisational values, monitor practice, and lead by example in challenging discrimination.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Privacy and Dignity

    This element focuses on the core principles of privacy and dignity in adult social care, exploring how these rights underpin person-centred practice and legal frameworks such as the Care Act 2014. Learners will develop practical skills to uphold privacy in personal care and information management, while fostering dignity through respectful communication, supporting choice, and enabling individuals to actively participate in decisions about their own care and daily lives.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Finance and Budgeting

    This element equips care leaders with the skills to manage financial resources effectively in adult care settings. It covers budget planning, financial control, and evaluation to ensure resources are used efficiently to maintain high-quality, person-centred care. Practical application involves aligning financial decisions with organizational objectives, regulatory compliance, and the principles of accountability and transparency in the use of public or private funds.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Assist in the administration of oxygen

    This element equips learners to safely assist in oxygen administration for individuals with respiratory conditions, emphasizing adherence to organisational policies, understanding of relevant anatomy and physiology, and competent use of monitoring equipment. Mastery involves recognizing adverse effects, maintaining equipment, and providing person-centred care while accurately recording observations and responding to changes in oxygen saturation levels.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Contribute to supporting group care activities

    This element focuses on the role of care workers in facilitating group activities within care settings, emphasising the importance of fostering a supportive environment that respects individual needs while promoting social engagement. Practical application involves planning, implementing, and reviewing activities to enhance the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals in group contexts.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Providing Information to Clients

    This element develops competence in identifying and addressing client information needs through systematic assessment and use of specialist tools. Practitioners learn to evaluate the breadth and relevance of available resources, then apply computer-based packages to pinpoint gaps and plan tailored progression routes. The focus is on delivering accurate, timely, and context-appropriate information that empowers clients to make informed decisions.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Digital Safety and Security

    This element equips adult care practitioners with the skills to safeguard sensitive personal information and organisational data by minimising risks to digital devices and protecting data from online threats. It focuses on practical measures such as secure password policies, antivirus use, encryption, and phishing awareness, ensuring compliance with data protection legislation and maintaining trust in care settings.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introducing Health Studies

    This subtopic provides foundational knowledge of health studies as a multidisciplinary field integrating social sciences, epidemiology, and policy analysis to understand health determinants and outcomes. Learners gain insight into quantitative and qualitative research methods, enabling them to interpret studies and apply findings to real-world health scenarios and career planning in health and social care sectors.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Specialist Advice Work in Practice - Employment

    This element focuses on the practical application of specialist employment advice within the broader context of information, advice or guidance services. Learners explore the legal frameworks governing employment rights, such as contracts, discrimination law, and redundancy procedures, and develop the skills to assess individual client circumstances, signpost to relevant systems, and deliver tailored, non-judgmental support. The element also emphasises reflective practice, requiring learners to critically evaluate their own advisory competence and identify ongoing professional development needs.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Prepare to Undertake a Newborn Hearing Screen

    This element focuses on the essential preparatory steps before conducting a newborn hearing screen, including correctly identifying eligible infants, engaging parents in a sensitive and informed consent process, and recognising clinical risk factors that may affect screening outcomes. It also covers the practical competencies of equipment checks and optimising the testing environment to ensure accurate results and a positive family experience. Mastery of these skills is fundamental to delivering a safe, effective, and family-centred screening service in line with national programme standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Safeguarding Children

    This element focuses on the essential knowledge and skills required to protect children from harm, abuse, and neglect within an adult social care setting. Learners must understand the legal framework including the Children Act 1989 and 2004, recognise indicators of abuse such as physical, emotional, sexual abuse and neglect, and know the correct procedures for reporting concerns to designated safeguarding leads and external agencies like children's social care.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Principles for implementing duty of care in health, social care or children’s and young people’s settings

    This subtopic explores the legal and ethical responsibilities of health screeners to uphold duty of care, ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals while respecting their autonomy and rights. It examines how to navigate conflicts between an individual's choices and professional obligations, and the correct procedures for responding to complaints to maintain trust, safety, and continuous improvement in health screening environments.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Providing Information, Advice and Referral to Support Learner Progression

    This subtopic explores the diverse roles of personnel delivering information, advice and guidance (IAG) within educational settings, including their specific responsibilities and boundaries. It examines how different IAG services support learner progression and the critical referral mechanisms that ensure learners access appropriate specialist support, promoting a seamless pathway towards their goals.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Assist in the delivery of perioperative care and support to individuals

    This subtopic focuses on the healthcare support worker's role in the perioperative setting, including understanding how the clinical environment and surgical procedures can impact patients' physical and psychological wellbeing. It emphasises practical skills in implementing individualised care plans to ensure safety, dignity, and comfort before, during, and after surgery, while also maintaining vigilant monitoring to detect and respond to changes in the patient's condition.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Duty of Care in Care Settings

    This element explores the legal and ethical obligation of care professionals to ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals, requiring a thorough understanding of how duty of care underpins safe practice. It addresses the delicate balance between upholding individual rights and protecting from harm, equipping learners with skills to manage conflicts, respond to complaints, and effectively handle adverse events in accordance with regulatory frameworks.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understanding Own Role in Health and Social Care

    This element focuses on the foundational knowledge required to work effectively in adult social care, including understanding one's own duties, responsibilities, and limits as defined by the employer and regulatory standards. It emphasises the importance of adhering to agreed ways of working, maintaining professional relationships, and collaborating with colleagues, other professionals, and the individuals receiving care to ensure safe, person-centred support.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Governance and Regulatory Processes

    This subtopic focuses on the governance frameworks and regulatory processes essential for leading adult care services. It equips leaders to ensure their organisation complies with legislation, maintains robust internal governance, and meets external regulatory standards, such as those inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Understanding these elements is critical for delivering safe, effective, and well-led care.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Contribute to supporting individuals in the use of assistive technology

    This subtopic explores the diverse range of assistive technologies designed to enhance independence and quality of life for individuals in care settings. It covers understanding how these technologies address specific needs, and the practical skills required to support individuals in selecting, using, and maintaining them effectively within a person-centred framework. Learners will develop competence in facilitating technology use while promoting dignity, safety, and empowerment.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Introducing Life Science

    This subtopic introduces the fundamental concepts of life science, exploring its core disciplines, research methodologies, and tangible applications in health and social care. It equips learners with the foundational knowledge to understand how scientific inquiry drives innovation in healthcare and society, laying the groundwork for informed career exploration and further study.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    4 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Specialist Advice Work in Practice - Housing

    This element focuses on the practical application of specialist housing advice, exploring clients' legal rights, information needs, and the adviser's role in providing tailored guidance. Learners examine how to assess a client's housing situation, identify relevant legislation, and signpost to appropriate services, while reflecting on their own competence and areas for professional development. Mastery involves integrating knowledge of housing law with empathetic, client-centred communication to empower individuals facing housing challenges.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Referral in Information, Advice or Guidance Practice

    This subtopic explores the essential role of referral within information, advice, and guidance (IAG) services, focusing on organisational procedures, practitioner scope, and the ethical imperatives that ensure client needs are met safely and effectively. It equips learners to recognise the limits of their own competence and to follow clear protocols when signposting or referring individuals to specialist support, thereby upholding duty of care and professional standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introducing Physical Science

    This subtopic introduces the fundamental principles of physical science, including physics and chemistry, as they apply to the human body and healthcare technology. It explores how physical laws govern physiological processes and medical diagnostics, forming a basis for further study in health-related fields. Students will gain insight into how physical science research drives innovation in patient care and medical equipment.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Group Living in Adult Care

    This subtopic explores the principles of group living within adult care settings, focusing on how theoretical models and legislation shape practice to create supportive, person-centred environments. It equips leaders to promote positive outcomes such as independence, dignity, and social inclusion, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and fostering a positive culture among staff and residents.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Work in a Person-Centred Way

    This subtopic focuses on embedding person-centred values into everyday care practice, ensuring that individuals receiving adult social care are active partners in decisions about their lives. It covers understanding and applying values such as dignity, respect, independence, and choice, alongside the principles of the Mental Capacity Act. Practical application involves tailoring support to maintain comfort, identity, self-esteem, and spiritual wellbeing, while continuously adapting care to meet changing physical and emotional needs.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Specialist Advice Work in Practice – Debt

    This subtopic equips learners with the practical knowledge to advise clients on debt issues, considering legal, financial, and emotional factors. It focuses on identifying different debt types, applying resolution strategies like budgeting and negotiation, and reflecting on personal competence to ensure ethical, effective guidance in line with professional standards.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Principles of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening and Treatment

    This subtopic explores the foundational knowledge required for health screeners undertaking abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening. It covers the normal structure and function of the circulatory system, the pathological changes leading to aneurysm formation, and the relevant medical terminology. Learners will also examine the current treatment options, enabling them to understand the patient journey from screening to intervention and the critical role of accurate measurement and communication.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Assist in the implementation of programmes to increase mobility, movement and functional independence

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with the knowledge and skills to assist in mobility and functional independence programmes under the direction of registered practitioners. It covers legal frameworks, therapeutic approaches, and the practical application of techniques such as active and passive exercises, use of mobility aids, and falls prevention strategies, ensuring safe and person-centred care that promotes dignity and autonomy.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Contribute to supporting individuals with a learning disability to access healthcare

    This subtopic focuses on the role of care workers in enabling individuals with learning disabilities to navigate and utilise healthcare services effectively. It encompasses understanding legal frameworks, promoting person-centred planning, and addressing barriers to ensure equitable access. Practical application involves direct support during appointments, communication advocacy, and collaboration with health professionals to uphold the individual's long-term wellbeing.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Effective Communication in Care Settings

    This element explores the fundamental role of effective communication in adult care, emphasizing person-centred approaches that respect individual preferences and confidentiality. Learners apply verbal, non-verbal, and written techniques to overcome barriers, ensuring care is tailored and inclusive, while also understanding when to involve advocates to uphold individuals' rights and wishes. Mastering these skills is essential for building trust, promoting dignity, and delivering safe, high-quality care in compliance with legislative frameworks.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Handling Information

    This subtopic focuses on the principles and practices of handling information within adult care settings, emphasising the leader's role in ensuring compliance with legal frameworks such as GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. It explores how to implement and monitor robust information management systems that safeguard sensitive data while promoting transparency and effective communication among staff, residents, and external agencies.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care, NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    2 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

    Assist individuals who have mental health problems when they are transferring between agencies and services

    This element covers the crucial role of healthcare support workers in facilitating seamless and person-centred transitions for individuals with mental health problems across health and social care services. It emphasises the application of relevant legislation (such as the Mental Health Act, Care Act, and Equality Act), organisational policies, and multi-agency protocols to ensure safe, dignified, and effective transfers. Practical competence involves preparing individuals, using supportive communication, advocating for their rights and choices, and collaborating with diverse professionals to minimise distress and promote continuity of care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Reflecting on Own Practice in Information, Advice or Guidance

    This element focuses on the critical evaluation of one’s own performance when delivering information, advice or guidance (IAG), ensuring alignment with organisational goals and continuous professional growth. It requires practitioners to systematically analyse their beliefs and behaviours, identify development needs, and produce actionable plans, while maintaining strict accountability to ethical codes and standards. Mastery of this reflective practice enhances service quality, client outcomes, and organisational effectiveness.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Principles of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening and Treatment

    This subtopic covers the essential knowledge of the circulatory system, focusing on the aorta and its susceptibility to aneurysmal dilation, the medical terminology used in AAA screening, the pathological processes leading to arterial disease, and the evidence-based treatment pathways for abdominal aortic aneurysms, equipping health screeners with the foundational understanding to accurately perform and communicate screening results.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Specialist Advice Work in Practice – Refugee, Immigrant or Asylum Seeker

    This element equips learners to provide specialist advice within the distinct legal frameworks governing refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers. It focuses on interpreting and applying relevant legislation to real client scenarios, while maintaining ethical boundaries and cultural sensitivity. Practitioners learn to assess their own competence, identify when to refer clients, and commit to continuous professional development in this rapidly evolving field.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Human Rights in Care Settings

    This element explores the principles and practical application of equality, diversity, inclusion, and human rights within adult care settings. It examines how legislation, policies, and personal values shape working practices, and how care workers can actively promote an inclusive environment that respects individual needs, preferences, and rights.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Introducing Psychology

    This element introduces psychology as a scientific discipline, exploring its core principles, research methods, and real-world applications, especially within health and social care. It also highlights potential career paths that utilise psychological knowledge, preparing students for further study or employment in health sciences.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Contribute to the care of a deceased person

    This element focuses on the practical and emotional aspects of care after death, including understanding cultural and religious factors, supporting bereaved individuals, preparing the body respectfully, and ensuring safe transfer procedures. Learners must demonstrate competence in performing these tasks while managing their own emotional responses professionally.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England), NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Principles of safeguarding and protection in health and social care

    This element equips health screeners with essential knowledge to recognise and respond to safeguarding concerns, including the ability to identify various forms of abuse and understand the legal and organisational frameworks that protect vulnerable individuals. It emphasises practical application of national policies, local protocols, and proactive measures to reduce the likelihood of abuse while upholding professional duty of care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Assist others to monitor individuals' progress in managing dysphagia

    This subtopic focuses on the role of healthcare support workers in assisting multidisciplinary teams to monitor individuals with dysphagia, ensuring safe swallowing and nutritional intake. It covers understanding relevant legislation, guidelines, and effective monitoring techniques, as well as accurate reporting and recording to inform care plans and prevent complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Health and Safety

    This element equips leaders in adult social care with the knowledge and skills to ensure legal compliance, foster a safety culture, and proactively manage risks through robust policies and practices. It emphasizes translating statutory requirements into daily operations and leading teams to maintain safe environments for service users and staff. Practical application involves auditing, training, incident analysis, and continuous improvement.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Facilitate Learning and Development Activities to Meet Individual Needs and Preferences

    This element explores how care practitioners can design, deliver, and review learning and development activities that are person-centred and adaptive to individual needs, preferences, and goals. It emphasises practical skills in assessment, planning, risk management, and facilitation, alongside critical reflection to enhance future practice. Mastery of this area ensures that individuals are empowered to maintain skills, acquire new ones, and experience meaningful engagement.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Investigating a Vocational Area

    This subtopic guides learners through systematically investigating vocational areas within health sciences, enabling them to identify suitable career paths, understand role-specific requirements, and assess personal development needs. Practical application involves using research methodologies to explore job roles, map skills gaps, and formulate actionable professional growth plans aligned with sector standards.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understand Career-related Interviewing Skills to Enable Learner Progression

    This element focuses on developing the essential interviewing skills required to support clients in making informed career decisions. It covers establishing a professional and welcoming environment, systematically exploring client needs and available progression options, tailoring interventions to individual circumstances, and critically reflecting on practice to enhance future performance.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Contribute to the effectiveness of teams

    This subtopic focuses on the individual's role within a care team and how effective collaboration enhances service delivery. Learners explore personal contribution to team performance, reflective practice, time management, and building professional relationships, all vital for safe and person-centred care.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England), NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    2 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Facilitate person centred assessment, planning, implementation and review

    This subtopic focuses on the holistic process of person-centred care, from initial assessment through collaborative planning, active implementation, ongoing monitoring, and formal review. It emphasises the active involvement of the individual, their family, and other professionals to ensure care is tailored to unique preferences, needs, and goals. Mastery of this cycle is essential for promoting dignity, autonomy, and positive outcomes in adult care settings.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England) , NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    7 learning outcomes17 guidance points2 criteria

    Health and Wellbeing

    This subtopic focuses on equipping leaders with the skills to embed a person-centred culture that actively promotes health, wellbeing, and independence among adults in care settings. It explores the critical link between leadership behaviours and service user outcomes, emphasizing how managers can model and champion holistic wellbeing practices. Learners will develop strategies to lead teams in implementing care plans that maximize autonomy and prevent deterioration, aligning with principles of dignity, choice, and duty of care.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Assist others to plan presentations

    This element focuses on equipping healthcare support workers with the skills to assist colleagues or service users in effectively planning presentations. It covers understanding appropriate planning techniques, selecting and using relevant resources, and providing structured support to ensure presentations are clear, informative, and tailored to the audience’s needs within a health and social care context.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understanding Learner Progression Opportunities

    This element focuses on equipping practitioners with the knowledge to identify and articulate diverse learner progression pathways, including further education, higher education, employment, and personal development opportunities. It emphasises the practical skill of matching individual learner aspirations to suitable options while utilising current, credible information resources to ensure advice is accurate and tailored.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Principles of ultrasound for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

    This subtopic focuses on the fundamental principles of diagnostic B-mode ultrasound as applied to abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening. Learners will explore how sound waves generate real-time images of the aorta, the operational functions of ultrasound machine controls to optimize image quality, and the safety protocols essential for minimizing biological risks during scans. Mastery of these concepts is critical for competent, safe practice in national screening programmes.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Contribute to the support of individuals with multiple conditions and/or disabilities

    This element focuses on the essential knowledge and skills required to provide effective, person-centred support for individuals living with multiple conditions and/or disabilities. It addresses the complex, interconnected impacts on physical, emotional, social, and cognitive well-being, and the importance of collaborative, multi-disciplinary approaches. Learners must demonstrate practical competence in facilitating meaningful activities and critically evaluating their own contribution to promote independence and well-being.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Life Processes and Living Things

    This subtopic introduces fundamental biological concepts essential for health sciences, covering the characteristics of life, cellular biology across different organisms, principles of genetics and inheritance, ecological interactions, and detailed exploration of key plant and animal physiological systems. Learners will develop a practical understanding of how these biological principles underpin human health and disease, preparing them for further study or employment in healthcare settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Working with Employers in Job Brokerage

    This topic covers working with employers in job brokerage, including understanding the labour market, employer staffing needs, and supporting recruitment processes. Learners also advise employers on supporting individuals with particular needs.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Induction in Adult Care

    This element focuses on the strategic development and implementation of induction programmes for adult care staff, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards such as the Care Certificate and CQC requirements. It equips leaders with the skills to design tailored induction pathways that foster competence, confidence, and retention, while embedding organisational values and person-centred care. Effective induction is critical for safeguarding, staff wellbeing, and delivering high-quality care, making it a cornerstone of workforce development in adult social care.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Principles of Ultrasound for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

    This element covers the fundamental principles of diagnostic B-mode ultrasound as applied to abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening. Learners explore how ultrasound waves generate real-time images of the aorta to detect abnormal dilations, focusing on the operation of essential equipment controls to optimize image quality and diagnostic accuracy. Emphasis is placed on recognising potential biological effects of ultrasound exposure and implementing safety protocols to minimise risk during screening procedures.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    General Health and Safety in Care Settings

    This subtopic focuses on the fundamental health and safety obligations within adult care environments, including risk assessment, safe moving and handling, infection prevention, and incident management. Learners must grasp their legal and ethical duties to protect individuals, colleagues, and themselves while supporting service users' rights and dignity. Practical application involves implementing safety policies, conducting checks, and responding effectively to emergencies and everyday hazards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Nutritional Science

    This subtopic explores the fundamental role of major nutrient groups in supporting human physiological functions, alongside the varying nutritional needs across different life stages and health conditions. It examines the processes of digestion and absorption that enable nutrient utilisation, while linking dietary patterns to the prevention and management of diet-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions. Practical application includes assessing dietary intakes and understanding how to promote healthier eating habits in care environments.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Contribute to the support of infection prevention and control in social care

    This subtopic focuses on the fundamental principles and practical application of infection prevention and control within social care settings. It equips learners with the knowledge to apply relevant policies and guidelines consistently across diverse care environments and to demonstrate personal hygiene practices that directly reduce infection transmission. The content bridges theoretical understanding with hands-on competence in minimizing infection risks to safeguard vulnerable individuals and staff.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Assist professionals to support individuals from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds to access speech and language therapy services

    This subtopic explores the critical role of healthcare support workers in facilitating equitable access to speech and language therapy for individuals from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. It covers legislative frameworks, communication adaptations, and collaborative care strategies, emphasizing person-centred support that respects cultural diversity and overcomes language barriers to ensure effective therapy participation.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Introduction to communication in health and social care _adults and children and young people_, early years and childcare

    Introduction to communication in health and social care covers different methods of communication and how to communicate effectively with individuals. It is essential for building relationships and providing person-centred care. Learners will understand verbal and non-verbal communication.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology of the Eye

    This topic covers the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the eye, focusing on diabetic retinopathy and other retinal diseases. Learners must understand how diabetes affects the eye and how to recognise abnormal changes.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Preparing for Mediation: Initial Meetings with Clients

    This element focuses on the crucial pre-mediation phase where the mediator meets individually with each party to build rapport, explain the process, assess suitability, and prepare them for joint sessions. Effective initial meetings ensure participants understand confidentiality, explore underlying interests, and develop strategies to communicate constructively, laying the groundwork for successful dispute resolution.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Mediation Skills

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Delivering Appropriate Support

    Subtopic 'Delivering Appropriate Support' equips learners with the knowledge to identify and justify suitable support strategies for individuals with learning disabilities. It emphasises the person-centred assessment of needs, exploring various support types and intensity levels, and critically evaluating the concept of appropriateness through specific disability examples. Learners also analyse common barriers to support and propose practical, rights-based solutions to enhance inclusion and well-being.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Understanding Care Planning in End of Life Care

    This subtopic explores the principles and processes of care planning in end-of-life settings, emphasizing a holistic approach that addresses physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. It focuses on person-centred assessment and planning to ensure care is tailored to the individual's preferences and values, and includes advance care planning to enable individuals to make informed decisions about their future care. Understanding these elements is essential for delivering compassionate, dignified, and legally sound end-of-life care.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Communication with Individuals with Dementia

    This element explores how dementia affects communication, covering progressive changes such as word-finding difficulties, reduced comprehension, and emotional expression. It emphasizes the importance of adapting interaction strategies to maintain dignity and connection, addressing both verbal and non-verbal techniques. Learners will examine barriers including environmental and attitudinal factors, and develop person-centred approaches to facilitate meaningful exchanges in care settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Dementia Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Information, Advice or Guidance - Principles and Practice

    This subtopic examines the core distinctions between information, advice, and guidance, and the professional boundaries practitioners must observe when delivering these services. It explores how equality, diversity, and inclusion principles must be embedded into every interaction, ensuring services are accessible and non-discriminatory. Additionally, it addresses the critical importance of adhering to organisational policies on record keeping, data protection, and confidentiality to maintain trust and legal compliance.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Information, Advice or Guidance , NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    2 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    An Awareness of Learning Disability and Autism

    This element develops essential awareness for supporting individuals with learning disabilities and autism in adult social care settings. It focuses on understanding their unique needs, adapting communication methods, implementing reasonable adjustments, and applying relevant legislation to promote inclusion and person-centred care. The knowledge gained directly informs everyday practice to enhance the quality of life and outcomes for people receiving support.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Administer medication to individuals and monitor the effects

    This element focuses on the safe and effective administration of medication to individuals in care settings, emphasizing legal frameworks like the Medicines Act and Health and Safety at Work Act. It covers common drug types, their purposes, and potential side effects, along with practical techniques for preparing, administering, and monitoring medication. Learners must demonstrate competence in following policies, using correct routes, and recording outcomes to ensure person-centered care and compliance with regulations.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England), NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    2 learning outcomes17 guidance points2 criteria

    Autistic Individuals: Communication, Social Interaction and the Role of the Professional

    This element examines the distinctive communication styles and social interaction patterns of autistic individuals, alongside the professional's role in facilitating inclusive practices. Learners will explore evidence-based strategies to bridge communication gaps and foster positive social environments, crucial for person-centred support in health and social care settings. Understanding these differences is essential for reducing anxiety and promoting autonomy in autistic service users.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Adapt and fit healthcare equipment, medical devices, assistive technology, or products, to meet individuals' needs

    This subtopic focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of adapting and fitting healthcare equipment, medical devices, assistive technology, or products to meet the unique needs of individuals. It integrates understanding of relevant legislation, anatomy and physiology, and technical specifications to ensure safe, person-centred care. Learners will develop skills to assess, modify, and apply prescribed items while maintaining dignity, autonomy, and compliance with best practice standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Inclusive Communication and Challenging Unconscious Bias in Social Care

    This subtopic explores how unconscious bias affects communication dynamics in social care and the critical role of inclusive communication strategies in mitigating these biases. It emphasizes self-reflection and practical application, enabling learners to identify and modify their own biased communication patterns and contribute to systemic change within care environments. By analysing real-world scenarios, learners develop actionable strategies to foster equity and respect in interactions with service users and colleagues.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Addressing Unconscious Bias in Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    The Role of the Domestic Abuse Practitioner

    This subtopic equips learners with the core competencies of a domestic abuse practitioner, encompassing victim advocacy, risk identification and assessment, crisis intervention, and safety planning. It covers the practical application of legal frameworks and multi-agency collaboration to safeguard survivors and their children, while also addressing the importance of self-care and peer support in a high-stress profession.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Preventing and Tackling Domestic Abuse

    1 learning outcomes13 guidance points

    Understanding Duty of Care in Adult Health and Social Care

    This subtopic explores the concept of 'duty of care' as a legal and professional obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals receiving care. It examines how to balance this duty with respecting individual rights, manage dilemmas arising from conflicting responsibilities, identify and report unsafe practices, and the paramount importance of gaining valid consent in care interventions.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Dignity and Safeguarding in Adult Health and Social Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Leading Change, Learning & Improvement in Adult Social Care

    This element explores the strategic role of a digital leader in adult social care, focusing on overcoming barriers to technology adoption, cultivating a culture of digital learning and well-being, collaborating with stakeholders to enhance staff development, and driving ongoing improvements through evidence-based technology integration. Learners apply these principles to lead transformative change that improves care outcomes and staff competence.

    NOCN Level 5 Award in Understanding Digital Leadership in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Emergency First Aid in the Workplace

    This subtopic equips learners with essential life-saving skills for managing emergencies at work. It covers the first aider's legal and ethical duties, systematic assessment of incidents, and practical interventions for unresponsiveness, choking, bleeding, shock, and minor injuries, ensuring workplace safety and compliance with health and safety regulations.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work, NOCN Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work

    2 learning outcomes19 guidance points2 criteria

    Understand Support Available for Recovery and Rehabilitation

    This subtopic explores the range of support options crucial for addiction recovery and rehabilitation, including the roles of professionals, community resources, and structured programs. It equips learners to identify effective strategies to assist individuals at different stages of recovery, while emphasising the importance of setting boundaries, self-care, and using supervision to maintain their own well-being when providing support.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Addiction Recovery in Health and Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Career Development and Employability

    This element explores the significance of career planning in health sciences, linking personal attributes to vocational choices. It examines the concept of employability as the blend of skills, knowledge, and behaviors that enable individuals to secure and progress in health-related occupations, and equips learners with strategies for self-directed career management.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Comply with Health and Safety Requirements in the Workplace

    This subtopic focuses on the practical application of workplace health and safety legislation and organisational procedures. Learners must demonstrate the ability to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement control measures, ensuring compliance with legal duties and approved codes of practice. It underpins the proactive management of a safe working environment, protecting both the individual and colleagues from harm.

    NOCN Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Assistive Technology in Adult Care

    This subtopic explores the strategic implementation and management of assistive technology within adult care settings, focusing on how leaders can evaluate, facilitate, and embed technological solutions to promote independence, dignity, and safety for service users. It covers the selection of appropriate devices, risk assessment, staff training, and the integration of technology into care plans in line with regulatory and ethical standards.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Managing Paediatric Illness, Injuries and Emergencies

    This element covers essential first aid interventions for infants and children experiencing a range of injuries, illnesses, and emergencies, including fractures, head and spinal injuries, sensory conditions, acute medical episodes, temperature extremes, electric shock, burns, poisoning, and anaphylaxis. Practitioners must rapidly assess situations, provide age-appropriate care, and prioritise life-saving measures while minimising further harm until professional help arrives.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Safe Administration of Medicines

    This subtopic focuses on the safe administration of medicines, covering the entire process from preparation to monitoring and documentation. Learners will develop practical skills in checking prescriptions, adhering to the '6 Rights' of administration, supporting self-administration, and monitoring for therapeutic and adverse effects, all within the framework of legal and organisational policies. It ensures competent, person-centred practice in medication management.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Safe Handling of Medicines

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Information, Advice or Guidance in Practice

    This element examines the core distinctions between information (factual provision), advice (recommendation based on expertise), and guidance (supporting clients to make informed choices). It develops practical skills in assessing and meeting client needs while adhering to professional boundaries, and highlights how meticulous record-keeping underpins ethical practice and service accountability.

    NOCN Level 2 Award in Information, Advice or Guidance, NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Awareness of the role and responsibilities of the adult social care worker

    This subtopic provides foundational knowledge on the distinct role and core responsibilities of an adult social care worker. It covers the key tasks they perform, such as personal care and support, and their accountability for following care plans, maintaining dignity, and ensuring safety. Understanding this is essential for anyone entering the sector, as it underpins ethical practice and compliance with regulations.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Developing Interview Skills for Advice Work - Debt

    This subtopic focuses on developing the practical interviewing skills required to sensitively and effectively support clients with debt problems, ensuring information is gathered accurately while maintaining professional boundaries. It also covers the critical awareness of support mechanisms available to advisors, such as supervision, referral networks, and specialist resources, to manage complex cases and safeguard personal wellbeing.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Professional Response to Domestic Abuse

    This subtopic focuses on the professional response to domestic abuse, examining how practitioners in health and social care settings can effectively support survivors through empathetic communication, thorough risk assessment, and coordinated multi-agency working. It emphasizes the practical application of safeguarding procedures, legal frameworks, and inter-professional collaboration to enhance survivor safety and well-being.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Preventing and Tackling Domestic Abuse

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Adult Social Care Regulation and Inspection

    This subtopic examines the regulatory framework for adult social care in England, focusing on the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as the independent regulator. Learners explore the systems of registration, compliance monitoring, and enforcement that ensure services meet fundamental standards, as well as the inspection process including key lines of enquiry, ratings, and reports. The practical application lies in understanding how inspection outcomes directly influence service improvement, staff accountability, and the delivery of safe, effective, and person-centred care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Strategic Management of Service Provision for Survivors of Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls

    This element explores the strategic leadership and governance frameworks essential for delivering safe, survivor-centred services addressing domestic abuse and violence against women and girls. It equips managers to integrate national quality standards, lead multi-agency partnerships, and oversee financial and project management systems to ensure accountable, effective, and sustainable direct provision.

    NOCN Level 5 Award in Managing Direct Service Provision for Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Assist the practitioner to carry out health care activities

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with the knowledge and skills to safely assist registered practitioners in clinical activities, ensuring compliance with legislation and national guidelines. It covers understanding roles and responsibilities, infection control, consent, and accurate record-keeping, enabling effective multidisciplinary teamwork. Practical competence is demonstrated through direct observation in real work settings, integrating theory with hands-on client care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support, NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    2 learning outcomes11 guidance points2 criteria

    Promote and implement health and safety in health and social care

    This element equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills to promote and implement robust health and safety practices in health and social care environments. It covers legal responsibilities, risk management, infection control, safe handling, and emergency procedures, ensuring the well-being of clients, staff, and visitors. Mastery of these principles is essential for maintaining a safe screening service and complying with regulatory standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    9 learning outcomes13 guidance points

    Personal Career Planning

    This subtopic focuses on enabling learners to systematically self-assess their existing skills, knowledge, and abilities, and align them with realistic career pathways in the health sciences field. Practical application involves mapping personal attributes to progression opportunities such as further education, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles, and constructing a structured, actionable career development plan that supports lifelong learning and professional growth.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Working with Job Seekers in Job Brokerage

    This element focuses on the practical role of a job broker within information, advice, and guidance services. It covers the end-to-end process of supporting job seekers, from initial explanation of services and ongoing contact, through assessment, action planning, employer matching, application assistance, interview preparation, to post-employment support, ensuring learners can effectively bridge the gap between job seekers and sustainable work.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Dementia Awareness

    This subtopic focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of dementia, including its definitions, theoretical models, types, causes, and the lived experience of individuals. It equips care practitioners with the knowledge to provide person-centred support, recognize symptoms, and adapt care practices to meet the unique needs of people with dementia, thereby promoting dignity and quality of life.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England), NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Dementia Care, NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    3 learning outcomes16 guidance points3 criteria

    Leadership and Management

    This element explores the distinction between leadership and management in adult care, examining key theories such as transformational and situational leadership. Learners critically apply these models to real-world care scenarios, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, person-centred outcomes, and regulatory compliance. Developing emotional intelligence and reflective practice is integrated to enhance team performance and service delivery.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Handling Information in Care Settings

    This subtopic addresses the legal and ethical frameworks governing information management in adult care, including GDPR, the common law duty of confidentiality, and the Caldicott Principles. Learners must demonstrate the ability to securely record, store, access, and share sensitive personal data while upholding the rights of individuals, ensuring that all practices align with organisational policies and national legislation.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Awareness of the Mental Capacity Act 2005

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with essential knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, a pivotal legislation that safeguards individuals who may lack capacity to make specific decisions. It explores the Act's five statutory principles, the functional test of capacity, best interests decision-making, and the lawful use of restraint, all underpinned by the necessity to comply with the Code of Practice to ensure rights-based, person-centred care in everyday practice.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support, NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    2 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Personal Learning Goals

    This subtopic equips learners with the ability to identify, articulate, and pursue personal learning goals within health sciences contexts. Emphasis is placed on practical goal-setting frameworks, such as SMART targets, and the ongoing self-assessment required to track and adapt one's learning journey, ensuring professional growth and readiness for further study or employment.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Leading and Managing Community Services

    This subtopic focuses on the strategic and operational leadership required to manage community-based adult care services effectively. It covers understanding external and internal factors, such as legislation, funding constraints, and local population needs, which shape service delivery, while ensuring day-to-day responsiveness. Central to this is the implementation of robust safeguarding systems and the promotion of best practice through continuous improvement, partnership working, and person-centred approaches.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Working within Information, Advice or Guidance Operational Standards and Frameworks

    This element focuses on the operational standards and frameworks essential for delivering consistent, high-quality information, advice or guidance (IAG) services. Learners explore how to align practice with national and organisational benchmarks, implement quality assurance procedures, and utilise monitoring and feedback mechanisms to drive continuous improvement and meet client needs effectively.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Promote communication in health, social care or children’s and young people’s settings

    This subtopic equips health screeners with the skills to communicate effectively in diverse care settings, ensuring that individual needs, preferences, and rights are respected. It covers the importance of clear interaction in promoting dignity and safety, as well as practical strategies for overcoming barriers and maintaining confidentiality in line with legal and ethical frameworks.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Health and Safety in Care Settings (Topics)

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills to maintain a safe care environment, focusing on safe moving and handling of equipment and objects, handling hazardous substances, promoting fire safety, and implementing security measures. It underpins the duty of care required in adult care settings, ensuring compliance with legislation like the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and associated regulations, and emphasises the direct application of these principles in daily care practice to protect individuals, colleagues, and visitors.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Personal Study Skills

    This element develops essential study skills for health sciences learners, focusing on effective information retrieval from academic sources, proficient electronic storage and organisation of data, and the ability to produce concise, accurate summaries of complex written materials. Mastery of these skills underpins evidence-based practice and lifelong learning in health and social care professions.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Implement Therapeutic Group Activities

    Implementing therapeutic group activities in adult care involves facilitating structured sessions that promote physical, cognitive, emotional, or social well-being for individuals with diverse needs. It requires careful planning, person-centred approaches, and ongoing evaluation to ensure activities are safe, meaningful, and aligned with care plans. This element develops the necessary skills to engage individuals, manage group dynamics, and adapt activities to maximise therapeutic outcomes.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Leading and Managing Domiciliary Services

    Leading and managing domiciliary services involves overseeing person-centred care delivery in individuals’ homes, requiring coordination of staff, logistics, and resources to meet fluctuating needs while ensuring regulatory compliance. It demands robust systems for safeguarding vulnerable adults and lone workers, alongside continuous promotion of best practice through quality assurance, training, and adaptation to the unique challenges of community-based care.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Duty of care

    This element explores the legal and ethical responsibility of care workers to promote well-being and prevent harm, requiring them to navigate complex situations where individual rights may conflict with safety requirements. It underpins all professional practice, ensuring that service users are protected while their independence is respected.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Promote equality and inclusion in health, social care or children’s and young people’s settings

    This element explores the principles and practice of promoting equality and inclusion within health screening programmes. It equips learners with the knowledge to understand diversity and its relevance to equitable service delivery, and the skills to implement inclusive strategies that reduce health inequalities. Learners will examine how to challenge discrimination and adapt their practice to meet the diverse needs of individuals undergoing screening, ensuring a person-centred approach that respects cultural, social, and personal differences.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Care for a newborn baby

    This subtopic covers essential care practices for newborn babies, including feeding, bathing, clothing, and ensuring safety within a healthcare setting. It emphasizes the integration of current legislation and guidelines to promote holistic development and well-being. Practical application involves applying these principles in real-world care scenarios to support the physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs of newborns.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Improving Productivity Using Digital Technology

    This subtopic focuses on equipping adult care practitioners with the ability to select, apply, and evaluate digital technologies that enhance efficiency and effectiveness in care delivery. Learners will explore how tools such as electronic care planning systems, digital communication platforms, and mobile applications can streamline workflows, reduce administrative burden, and improve person-centred outcomes. The emphasis is on making evidence-based decisions to integrate technology in ways that are safe, ethical, and responsive to the diverse needs of service users and staff.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Enable individuals to develop strategies to manage their behaviour

    This subtopic equips care workers with the skills to support individuals in developing personalised strategies to manage their behavioural responses. It covers the legal and policy frameworks, such as the Mental Capacity Act and positive behaviour support, and explores the interplay of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors influencing behaviour. The practical focus is on enabling individuals to recognise how their actions affect others and to co-create, implement, and review effective behaviour management plans in a person-centred manner.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Leading and Managing Extra Care Services

    This subtopic focuses on leading and managing Extra Care Housing services for older adults, emphasising personalised care and promoting independence within a community setting. Practitioners must integrate housing, support, and care to ensure service users can age in place with dignity, while effectively managing operational demands and safeguarding responsibilities.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Care for individuals with naso-gastric tubes

    Care for individuals with naso-gastric tubes involves ensuring safe, effective feeding and medication delivery while adhering to legal and best practice standards. Understanding upper GI anatomy supports correct placement verification and complication management. Healthcare support workers play a vital role in preparation, monitoring, and emotional support during these procedures to promote patient dignity and wellbeing.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Promote good practice in handling information in health and social care settings

    This subtopic focuses on the essential principles and practices for managing personal and sensitive data within health and social care environments, particularly for health screeners. It covers legal frameworks like GDPR, ethical duties around confidentiality, and practical skills for secure record-keeping and information sharing. Mastery ensures client trust, regulatory compliance, and effective multi-agency collaboration.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Principles of Chemistry

    This subtopic introduces the foundational principles of chemistry essential for vocational health science roles. It covers the nature of chemical reactions, atomic structure and bonding, the periodic table's organization, and factors affecting reaction rates, providing a basis for understanding physiological processes and laboratory practices. Learners will apply these concepts to real-world healthcare settings, such as interpreting chemical interactions in the human body and safe handling of substances.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Infection Prevention and Control

    This topic covers understanding and preventing the spread of infection in adult care settings. Learners will know how to apply infection prevention and control measures in their work.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Promote person centred approaches in health and social care

    This subtopic equips health screeners with the skills to embed person-centred values in their practice, ensuring that care and support are tailored to each individual's unique needs, preferences, and strengths. It emphasizes the importance of informed consent, active involvement, and shared decision-making while balancing safety through person-centred risk assessment. By promoting dignity, respect, and well-being, learners can enhance the quality and effectiveness of health screening services.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Care for individuals with urethral catheters

    This subtopic equips learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills to provide safe, person-centred care for individuals with urethral catheters. It covers the legislative framework, clinical procedures, equipment usage, and ongoing monitoring required to maintain catheter patency, prevent infection, and promote comfort and dignity.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Leading and Managing Integrated Services

    This subtopic focuses on the leadership skills required to effectively manage integrated health and social care services for adults, ensuring seamless collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and agencies. It addresses the key factors influencing integration, including policy drivers, funding structures, and partnership working, while emphasising the practical application of managing day-to-day demands, implementing robust safeguarding systems, and promoting evidence-based best practice to achieve person-centred outcomes.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Enable rights and choices of individuals with dementia whilst minimising risks

    This subtopic focuses on empowering individuals with dementia to exercise their rights and choices while balancing safety. It covers key legislation like the Mental Capacity Act 2005, Care Act 2014, and Human Rights Act 1998, alongside agreed ways of working such as person-centred care planning and positive risk-taking. Learners will develop practical skills to involve carers and professionals in decision-making, maintain privacy and dignity, and document interventions ethically to promote autonomy and minimise harm.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Professional Skills in Health Care

    This subtopic explores the essential interpersonal and communication skills required in health care settings, highlighting the significance of professional conduct and the safeguarding of service users' rights. Learners will develop the ability to identify and overcome communication barriers while adhering to ethical standards and legal frameworks that underpin holistic, person-centred care.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    4 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Introduction to personalisation in social care

    This subtopic explores the shift towards personalisation in adult social care, moving from traditional service-led models to approaches that prioritise individual choice, control, and independence. It examines the legal and policy frameworks enabling personalisation, such as the Care Act 2014, and how they translate into practical systems like personal budgets and self-directed support. Understanding personalisation is crucial for care workers to implement person-centred planning and empower those they support.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England) , NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    7 learning outcomes17 guidance points2 criteria

    Leading and Managing Residential Services

    This subtopic focuses on the strategic and operational leadership of residential services for adults, emphasizing the need to manage resources, staff, and care quality in a dynamic environment. It requires learners to integrate safeguarding systems, respond effectively to daily challenges, and embed a culture of best practice that aligns with regulatory standards and person-centred values.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    The Ear and Hearing

    This element covers the anatomy and physiology of the ear, including sound transmission and neural interpretation. Learners study types and causes of hearing loss—conductive, sensorineural, and mixed—and their risk factors. It also introduces clinical assessment techniques like audiometry and tympanometry, alongside evidence-based management strategies such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, and communication support, equipping health screeners to identify and refer hearing issues effectively.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Equality and inclusion in care settings

    This element explores the fundamental principles of equality and inclusion within care settings, emphasizing their critical role in promoting dignity and respect for individuals. It equips learners with the knowledge and skills to apply anti-discriminatory practice, recognize and challenge discrimination, and access relevant policies and legislation. Practical application involves creating an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background or characteristics, feel valued and supported in their health and social care journey.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Care for the elderly

    This subtopic focuses on understanding the multifaceted ageing process, including biological, psychological, and social changes that impact elderly individuals. It emphasises adapting communication strategies to overcome barriers such as sensory or cognitive impairments, ensuring effective and compassionate interactions. Practical application involves delivering person-centred care that promotes dignity, independence, and holistic well-being in line with the Care Certificate and professional standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Research Skills

    This subtopic introduces foundational research skills essential for further study and employment in health sciences. Learners will explore the fundamental principles of research design, ethical considerations, planning, and report structuring to conduct valid investigations. Proficiency in these areas enables aspiring health professionals to critically evaluate evidence and contribute to evidence-based practice.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Care for the physical and nutritional needs of babies and young children

    This subtopic focuses on the practical skills and knowledge required to meet the physical and nutritional requirements of babies and young children, from birth to 36 months, within a healthcare support setting. Learners will explore how to implement safe and developmentally appropriate routines, promote physical activity, and ensure protective environments, while tailoring nutritional care to distinct age groups: under 18 months and 18-36 months. Mastery involves integrating safeguarding principles with evidence-based practices to support holistic child development.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Leading and Managing Shared Lives Services

    Leading and managing Shared Lives Services involves overseeing person-centred support for adults with care needs living in family-style arrangements. This subtopic explores the strategic factors influencing service delivery, operational management, safeguarding systems, and the promotion of best practice to ensure safe, high-quality outcomes for users and carers. It equips leaders with skills to navigate regulatory requirements, manage resources, and foster continuous improvement.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Revision and Examination Skills

    This subtopic equips learners with essential revision and examination strategies tailored for health sciences study. It explores the cognitive and practical benefits of structured revision, effective study methods, and strategies to manage exam stress, enabling learners to confidently demonstrate their knowledge in summative assessments. Mastery of these skills directly supports academic success and career readiness in health-related fields.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Leadership Styles

    This subtopic explores the core leadership styles relevant to adult care settings, including autocratic, democratic, laissez-faire, and transformational approaches. It emphasises the practical application of these styles in managing teams, improving care quality, and responding to dynamic situations, enabling learners to critically evaluate and adapt their own leadership behaviour to meet the diverse needs of service users and staff.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Equality, diversity and inclusion in dementia care practice

    This subtopic explores the critical principles of equality, diversity and inclusion tailored to dementia care practice. It focuses on applying person-centred approaches to respect the unique identity, background, and preferences of individuals with dementia, ensuring their care is both equitable and culturally sensitive. The aim is to empower care workers to meet diverse needs effectively, promoting dignity and well-being in all care interactions.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Mental Capacity and Restrictive Practice

    This element explores the legal framework of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, focusing on its five core principles and how they guide decision-making for individuals who may lack capacity. Learners will apply these principles to real-world care scenarios involving gaining valid consent and best interests decisions, while also examining the legal and ethical boundaries of restrictive practices, including restraint and deprivation of liberty safeguards. Understanding these concepts is crucial for promoting autonomy, ensuring lawful practice, and protecting the rights of vulnerable adults in care settings.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Social Psychology

    This subtopic explores the foundational principles of social psychology, examining how individual thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are influenced by social contexts. Learners will compare alternative theoretical perspectives and apply them to the self and group dynamics. The practical focus includes understanding research methods used to investigate social phenomena, preparing learners for academic study in health sciences.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Carry out arterial puncture and collect arterial blood

    This element covers the safe and competent performance of arterial puncture to obtain an arterial blood sample for diagnostic analysis, primarily blood gas analysis. Learners must understand and apply relevant legislation, national guidelines, and local protocols, and demonstrate the ability to prepare, perform, and document the procedure while minimising patient risk and ensuring sample integrity.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    The principles of Infection Prevention and Control

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge to prevent and control infections in health screening settings. It covers the legal framework, risk assessment, use of PPE, personal hygiene, and the specific roles and responsibilities of health screeners in maintaining a safe environment. Mastery of these principles is essential for minimizing healthcare-associated infections and ensuring client safety.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Leading and Managing Supported Accommodations

    This element equips care leaders with the strategic and operational skills to oversee supported accommodations for adults with diverse needs. It focuses on integrating regulatory compliance, person-centred practice, and dynamic risk management to ensure safe, effective, and empowering living environments. Learners will explore how to embed safeguarding cultures, lead teams, and foster continuous improvement in line with current legislation and best practice guidance.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Carry out blood collection from fixed or central lines

    This subtopic addresses the competencies required to safely collect blood specimens from fixed or central lines, including central venous access devices and arterial lines, in accordance with current legislation and local policies. It covers preparation, specimen collection, infection prevention, accurate labelling, and correct handling and transportation to maintain sample integrity and patient safety. The focus is on achieving proficiency in line management, recognising complications, and adhering to documentation and reporting standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Handle information in care settings

    This element focuses on the secure handling of information within care settings, encompassing legal, ethical, and procedural requirements to protect individuals' data. It explores the importance of confidentiality, data protection legislation (such as GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018), and the need for accurate record-keeping in promoting person-centred care. Learners must apply agreed ways of working to maintain security and know how to access support when facing information-handling challenges.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Leading and Managing Telecare and Remote Services

    This element focuses on the strategic leadership required to effectively implement and manage telecare and remote services in adult care settings. It covers the integration of technology to support independent living, the coordination of day-to-day operations, and the critical safeguarding protocols needed to protect both service users and staff. Practical application includes responding to real-time demands, promoting best practice, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and ethical standards.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Spelling Skills

    This element equips learners with essential spelling skills vital for accuracy in health science documentation and communication. By locating correct spellings, evaluating personal strengths and weaknesses, and maintaining a long-term spelling programme, students enhance their professional credibility and employability in health and social care settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    6 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Move and Position Individuals in Accordance with their Care Plan

    This subtopic covers the principles and practices of moving and positioning individuals in adult care settings, ensuring compliance with legislation, national guidelines, and individual care plans. Learners will explore the anatomy and physiology underpinning safe movement, risk assessment, and the use of appropriate techniques and equipment. The aim is to promote the dignity, comfort, and safety of individuals while minimizing the risk of injury to both the individual and care worker.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    The role of the health and social care worker

    This subtopic explores the essential principles of professional relationships in health and social care, including the boundaries between personal and professional conduct. It emphasises the importance of adhering to employer policies, agreed ways of working, and collaboration with colleagues, service users, and other agencies to ensure safe and effective care delivery.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    7 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understand How to Safeguard the Wellbeing of Children and Young People

    This topic covers legislation, policies, and procedures for safeguarding children and young people, including partnership working, responding to abuse or bullying, and promoting e-safety. Learners will understand how to ensure safety and protection in work settings.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Carry out intravenous infusion

    This subtopic equips learners with the essential knowledge and skills to safely perform intravenous cannulation and infusion, from understanding legal frameworks to practical execution and post-procedure monitoring. It emphasizes aseptic technique, patient safety, and adherence to national guidelines to prevent complications such as infection or phlebitis. Mastery ensures competent, evidence-based practice in healthcare settings.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes14 guidance points

    Health, safety and wellbeing in care settings

    This element equips care workers with essential knowledge and practical skills to maintain a safe and healthy environment for themselves, colleagues, and individuals receiving care. It covers legal responsibilities, risk assessment, incident response, infection control, safe moving and handling, hazardous substance management, fire safety, security, and stress management. Mastery ensures compliance with regulations and promotes physical and emotional wellbeing in care settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes15 guidance points

    Obtain and Test Capillary Blood Samples

    This subtopic focuses on the safe and accurate procedure for obtaining capillary blood samples, commonly used for point-of-care testing such as blood glucose monitoring in adult care settings. It covers essential underpinning knowledge of relevant legislation, anatomy and physiology, and practical skills from preparation to recording and communicating results. Mastery ensures compliance with infection control, informed consent, and effective management of long-term conditions like diabetes.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes15 guidance points

    Spreadsheets

    This subtopic equips learners with essential spreadsheet skills applicable to health sciences, enabling them to efficiently record, analyse, and present health-related data. Learners will explore practical uses such as tracking patient statistics, managing budgets, and creating clear visual reports, which are vital for informed decision-making in healthcare settings. The skills developed foster accuracy and professionalism in data handling, aligning with employment requirements in the health and social care sector.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    7 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Leading Person-Centred Practice

    This element focuses on leading person-centred practice to enable individuals to achieve their desired outcomes through partnership working, understanding the importance of relationships, and implementing positive risk-taking strategies. Leaders must embed a culture that prioritises the individual’s voice, choice, and control, balancing rights with risks to promote wellbeing. Practical application involves developing policies, coaching staff, and evaluating practices to ensure care is truly tailored to each person.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Awareness of Mental Health and Dementia

    This topic covers awareness of mental health and dementia in adult social care. Learners understand needs, early identification, personalised care, reasonable adjustments, and legal frameworks.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Information, Advice or Guidance - Context

    This subtopic focuses on understanding the diverse information, advice or guidance needs of specific client groups, exploring choices and options collaboratively, and enabling clients to challenge discriminatory practices. Practical application involves identifying and overcoming access barriers to ensure inclusive, client-centred service delivery.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Equity, Equality and Inclusion for Individuals with Learning Disabilities

    This subtopic explores the distinctions between equality and equity in supporting individuals with learning disabilities, emphasising the importance of inclusive practices. It examines how enabling choice and autonomy empowers individuals, while analysing systemic and personal barriers that restrict their self-determination. Learners apply these concepts to promote rights-based, person-centred care in health and social care environments.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Assess the Needs of Carers and Families

    This subtopic focuses on recognizing the essential role of families and carers in supporting individuals, and the process of assessing their own distinct needs. It covers engaging with carers respectfully, using appropriate methods to identify their physical, emotional, and social requirements, and collaboratively developing tailored support plans. Practical application involves applying these skills in adult care settings to promote carer well-being and sustain caregiving relationships.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Causes and Spread of Infection

    This subtopic examines the pathogenic microorganisms that cause infection, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and the conditions required for their growth and transmission. Health screeners must apply this knowledge to recognise infection risks in clinical settings, implement standard infection control precautions, and break the chain of infection to protect both clients and themselves. Understanding the modes of transmission—such as direct contact, airborne, droplet, and fomite spread—enables screeners to tailor prevention strategies during health assessments.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners, NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support, NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    3 learning outcomes16 guidance points3 criteria

    Introductory awareness of equality and inclusion in health, social care and children’s and young people’s settings

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental principles of equality and inclusion within health, social care and children’s and young people’s settings. It emphasises the practical importance of treating all individuals fairly, respecting diversity, and understanding the harmful effects of discriminatory behaviour. Learners will explore key factors that influence equality and inclusion, enabling them to support person-centred care and promote positive outcomes for individuals in these environments.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understanding Dementia in End of Life Care

    This subtopic examines how dementia uniquely shapes end-of-life care, requiring tailored approaches to communication, decision-making, and symptom management. Learners explore methods to recognize and alleviate pain in individuals who may be non-verbal, using observational tools and holistic comfort measures. The content also emphasizes the emotional and practical support needed by families and caregivers, promoting dignity and collaborative care during the final stages of life.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Understanding Principles of Dignity in Adult Health and Social Care Practice

    This element explores the foundational principles of dignity, including respect, privacy, autonomy, and self-worth, and how these apply within adult health and social care settings. It examines the negative consequences when dignity is not upheld, such as loss of self-esteem and institutionalisation, and provides strategies for embedding person-centred approaches to promote dignified care. Learners will also understand the critical role of professional boundaries and effective communication in maintaining service users' dignity.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Dignity and Safeguarding in Adult Health and Social Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Managing Unconscious Bias in Teamwork

    This subtopic examines how unconscious biases can undermine team dynamics, communication, and care quality within social care environments. It equips learners to recognise bias, promote inclusive practices, and appreciate leadership’s pivotal role in fostering a fair, respectful team culture, using reflective case study analysis.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Addressing Unconscious Bias in Social Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Common Measures and Shape

    This subtopic equips learners with practical measurement skills for health sciences, covering time formats, temperature scales, metric/imperial units, scale drawings, compound measures, and geometric calculations of perimeters and areas. Mastery supports accurate clinical tasks like medication timing, temperature monitoring, interpreting anatomical diagrams, and calculating dosages based on surface area.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    6 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Promoting Positive Mental Health in the Workplace

    This element examines the proactive promotion of positive mental health within workplace settings, focusing on the distinct roles and responsibilities of employers, line managers, and employees. It explores the nature and impact of work-related stress, distinguishing between pressure and stress, and identifies evidence-based strategies such as stress risk assessments, mental health first aid training, and supportive return-to-work policies. Mastery of this content equips learners to foster a psychologically safe work environment that meets legal and ethical obligations.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in First Aid for Mental Health

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Conduct a Health and Safety Risk Assessment of a Workplace

    This subtopic focuses on the systematic process of conducting a workplace risk assessment in compliance with UK health and safety legislation. It covers the full cycle from preparation and hazard identification to risk evaluation, control implementation, and periodic review, emphasising practical competency in real work environments.

    NOCN Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Understanding Medication

    This element provides foundational knowledge on the classification of medicines (e.g., prescription-only, pharmacy, general sale), routes of administration, and controlled drug regulations. Learners examine the roles of prescribers, pharmacists, and care staff, alongside key legislation like the Medicines Act 1968 and Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, to ensure safe practice in medication management within care settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Safe Handling of Medicines

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Introduction to Autism

    This subtopic provides foundational knowledge of autism as a spectrum condition, emphasizing the heterogeneity of autistic experiences and their profound effects on communication, social interaction, and behaviour. It explores the critical role of neurodiversity-informed practice in health and social care, alongside identifying systemic barriers autistic individuals face when accessing services and the legislative frameworks designed to promote their rights and inclusion.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Awareness of the skills and attitudes needed to work in adult social care

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental skills and attitudes required for effective practice in adult social care settings. It emphasises the importance of person-centred values, communication, and empathy, while exploring how these attributes directly influence the quality of care and support provided. Learners will gain awareness of how these skills and attitudes underpin professional conduct and promote dignity, respect, and independence for individuals receiving care.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understanding Mediation for Conflict Resolution

    This element explores the nature of conflict and the range of approaches to conflict resolution, with a specific focus on the role of mediation. Learners develop an understanding of how mediation differs from other dispute resolution methods and its application within health and social care contexts to promote collaborative outcomes and maintain professional relationships.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Mediation Skills

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understanding Addiction in Social Care

    This element introduces the fundamental concepts of addiction within social care settings, covering definitions, typologies, and behavioural indicators. Learners explore biological, psychological, and social risk factors that increase vulnerability, and they develop appropriate response strategies for addressing concerns, including signposting and referral. Mastery of this knowledge is essential for effective, non-judgmental support and early intervention in health and social care practice.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Addiction Recovery in Health and Social Care

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Developing Interview Skills for Advice Work - Employment

    This element focuses on equipping advisors with the practical skills to conduct effective interviews with clients facing employment-related challenges. Learners will develop techniques for building rapport, using appropriate questioning, and structuring interviews to identify needs and provide tailored guidance. Additionally, it covers the critical understanding of the internal and external support systems available to advisors, including supervision, referral networks, and continuing professional development, to ensure safe, ethical, and effective practice.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Business and Resource Management

    This element focuses on equipping leaders with the skills to manage financial, physical, and human resources efficiently within adult care settings. It explores market dynamics, commissioning processes, and the importance of integrated health and social care systems to deliver person-centred, cost-effective services. Learners apply strategic planning to ensure resource sustainability while meeting regulatory and quality standards.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    The Impact of Domestic Abuse on Children and Young People

    This element explores the multifaceted impact of domestic abuse on children and young people, including emotional, psychological, and relational consequences. It examines how exposure to abuse shapes family dynamics and child development, and it evaluates professional interventions aimed at safeguarding and supporting affected children. Understanding these impacts is crucial for practitioners to deliver effective, trauma-informed care.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in Preventing and Tackling Domestic Abuse

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    The Use of Technology and Data in Adult Social Care

    This subtopic examines the strategic integration of technology and data within adult social care, emphasising the national policy landscape, the transformative benefits for care quality and individual outcomes, and the critical importance of robust data protection, safeguarding, and ethical frameworks. Learners will explore how digital leadership navigates legal requirements and organisational governance to ensure safe, person-centred care delivery.

    NOCN Level 5 Award in Understanding Digital Leadership in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Recognition and Management of Illness and Injury in the Workplace

    This element focuses on equipping learners with the skills to systematically identify and manage a range of acute illnesses and traumatic injuries commonly encountered in the workplace. It covers performing secondary surveys, providing first aid for musculoskeletal injuries, head and spinal trauma, chest injuries, burns, eye injuries, poisoning, anaphylaxis, and major medical conditions such as heart attack, stroke, and diabetes emergencies. Mastery ensures a responder can stabilize casualties, prevent deterioration, and communicate effectively with emergency services.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Approaches to enable rights and choices for individuals with dementia whilst minimising risks

    This subtopic focuses on enabling individuals with dementia to exercise their rights and make choices while balancing necessary risk minimization. It covers key legislation like the Mental Capacity Act 2005, person-centered approaches to maintain dignity, and strategies to support potential. Practical skills include risk assessment, positive communication, and partnership working with carers to ensure holistic support.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Understanding Child Protection in the Context of Domestic Abuse

    This element explores the intersection of domestic abuse and child protection, equipping learners with the knowledge to identify abuse forms linked to domestic environments, respond professionally to disclosures, and apply relevant legislation. It emphasizes practical skills for multi-agency collaboration and trauma-informed support to safeguard children and young people effectively.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Preventing and Tackling Domestic Abuse

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Mental Capacity

    This topic explores mental capacity and consent in adult care, including the use and impact of restrictive practices. Learners must understand legal frameworks and ethical considerations.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Study Management Skills

    This subtopic introduces the foundational principles of study management, a critical skill for success in health sciences. Learners will explore how effective planning, organisation, and self-discipline contribute to academic achievement and prepare them for the demands of healthcare environments. Practical application includes creating conducive study environments and applying time management techniques to balance study with other commitments.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Implement person-centred approaches in care settings

    This subtopic focuses on embedding person-centred values into everyday care practice, ensuring that the individual remains at the heart of decision-making and support. Learners will develop the skills to work collaboratively with service users, promote their dignity and autonomy, and tailor care to their unique preferences, strengths, and desired outcomes. Practical application includes respecting diversity, establishing valid consent, and actively enabling individuals to participate in their own care, thereby enhancing their well-being and independence.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Obtain venous blood samples

    This subtopic covers the essential skills and knowledge required to safely obtain venous blood samples from adults in a care setting, following current legislation, guidelines, and protocols. It includes understanding the relevant anatomy and physiology, preparing the patient and equipment, performing the venepuncture procedure, and properly handling and transporting the sample for analysis.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Understanding Diabetes and Diabetic retinopathy

    This element equips learners with foundational knowledge of diabetes mellitus, including the pathophysiological distinctions between type 1 and type 2, acute complications such as hypoglycaemia, and chronic complications with a focus on diabetic retinopathy. Understanding these concepts is essential for health screeners to accurately identify at-risk individuals, explain condition implications, and promote effective management strategies within screening contexts.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Carry out vision screening

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with the essential competencies to perform vision screening, from understanding legal and ethical frameworks to practical execution and post-procedure care. It emphasises person-centred approaches, accurate use of equipment, and effective communication to ensure reliable results and appropriate referrals.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Partnerships

    This element explores the principles of effective partnership working within adult care leadership. It covers leading relationships with individuals, carers, and families to place them at the centre of care, managing collaborative relationships with colleagues to drive positive outcomes, and working strategically with external professionals and agencies to ensure integrated, high-quality support. Mastery involves understanding the context of these relationships and applying leadership skills to build trust, resolve conflicts, and align all partners toward shared goals.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Person-Centred Practice in Care Settings

    This element explores the fundamental principles of person-centred practice within adult care, emphasising the shift from task-focused to relationship-focused care. It examines how to respect and promote individuals' rights, preferences, and choices, ensuring that care is tailored to their unique needs and aspirations. Mastery of this element is essential for fostering dignity, independence, and well-being in care settings, aligning with legislative frameworks such as the Care Act 2014.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Understanding Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy

    This subtopic explores diabetes mellitus, focusing on the clinical distinctions between type 1 and type 2, acute complications such as hypoglycaemia, and the long-term microvascular consequences, particularly diabetic retinopathy. It equips health screeners with the knowledge to identify individuals at risk and to understand the pathophysiological basis for screening interventions.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    4 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Carry out wound drainage care

    This element equips learners with the essential knowledge and skills to safely manage wound drainage systems in a healthcare setting, covering safety measures, principles of drainage, equipment use, procedural techniques, and accurate recording. It emphasizes infection control, patient comfort, and effective collaboration with the healthcare team to prevent complications and promote optimal wound healing.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    The Building Blocks of Chemistry

    This subtopic introduces essential chemistry concepts for health sciences, including classification of substances, separation of mixtures, atomic structure, and bonding. These fundamentals are vital for understanding drug formulations, diagnostic tests, and biological processes in healthcare settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    4 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Personal Wellbeing

    This topic covers personal wellbeing for managers in adult care. Learners must understand the importance of wellbeing, know how to maintain and improve it, and manage stress and anxiety effectively.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understanding Plagiarism

    This subtopic equips learners with the understanding of plagiarism's definition, its various forms, and the critical importance of academic integrity within health sciences. It provides practical skills to avoid plagiarism through correct citation methods, ensuring ethical conduct in both academic and professional healthcare environments.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Undertake Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

    This subtopic focuses on the practical and procedural aspects of performing abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening using ultrasound. It covers the essential steps from preparing the environment and individual, through safe use of equipment to acquire diagnostic images, to result recording and follow-up actions in line with clinical protocols. Mastery ensures competent, safe, and effective screening that minimises risk and supports early detection.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Productive Thinking Skills

    This subtopic focuses on equipping adult care practitioners with structured problem-solving techniques to enhance service quality and efficiency. It explores how to systematically identify root causes of issues, utilise data to drive improvements, and evaluate the resulting benefits within a care environment.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Introductory awareness of Autistic Spectrum Conditions

    This subtopic introduces care workers to the defining characteristics of Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC), including the triad of impairments in social communication, social interaction, and rigid/repetitive patterns of behaviour. It emphasises the spectrum concept, highlighting the wide variation in individual abilities and needs, and equips learners with foundational strategies for person-centred support and effective communication. The practical application focuses on enabling individuals with ASC to achieve positive outcomes in daily living within care environments.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Promote Choice and Independence for Individuals

    This element focuses on equipping care workers with the skills to actively promote individuals' rights to make informed choices and maintain independence, in line with person-centred values. It emphasises the use of positive risk-taking and risk assessments to enable autonomy while ensuring safety, supporting individuals to live as independently as possible within a care setting.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Undertaking a Research Project

    This subtopic equips learners with fundamental skills to independently design, execute, and critically assess a small-scale research project within health sciences. It emphasises practical application of research methods, ethical considerations, and effective presentation of findings, preparing learners for academic progression and vocational roles requiring evidence-based practice. Through hands-on project work, students develop the ability to formulate research questions, collect and interpret data, and evaluate the reliability and relevance of research outcomes.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Undertake Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

    This unit equips learners with the practical skills and underpinning knowledge required to conduct safe and effective abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening. It covers patient preparation, ultrasound imaging techniques, image optimization, record-keeping, and post-screening protocols, ensuring adherence to national screening standards and safe practice.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    7 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Recruitment, Selection and Retention in Adult Care

    This element focuses on the strategic and operational aspects of workforce planning in adult care settings, ensuring compliance with legislation such as the Equality Act 2010, CQC regulations, and organisational policies. It equips learners to design fair, values-based recruitment and selection processes and to implement effective retention strategies that align with sector-specific challenges such as high turnover and skills shortages. Practical application involves critically evaluating current practices, managing end-to-end recruitment legally and ethically, and using data to improve staff stability and care quality.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Introductory awareness of models of disability

    This element introduces learners to the contrasting perspectives of the medical and social models of disability, focusing on how each model defines disability and shapes professional practice. It emphasises the practical implications of adopting a particular model for service provision, care planning, and the promotion of individual autonomy and inclusion. Understanding these models is foundational for delivering person-centred care that supports wellbeing and enhances quality of life.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Cleaning, Decontamination and Waste Management

    This subtopic equips learners with the essential knowledge and skills to maintain a hygienic healthcare environment through effective cleaning, decontamination procedures, and safe waste management. It emphasizes infection prevention and control, adherence to legislation and policies, and the practical steps required to minimize risks to patients, staff, and visitors. Achieving competence in these areas is critical for compliance with regulatory standards and delivering safe, high-quality care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support, NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners, NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    3 learning outcomes21 guidance points3 criteria

    Collaborate in the assessment of environmental and social support in the community

    This topic covers collaborating in the assessment of environmental and social support in the community, including legislation, assessment methods, and planning changes. It is part of a Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Research Theory and Practice in Adult Care

    This element equips learners with the skills to design, conduct, and evaluate research within adult care settings. It emphasizes the application of appropriate paradigms and methodologies to address practical challenges, ensuring evidence-based improvements in care delivery. The focus is on ethical, rigorous inquiry that directly informs leadership and management decisions in adult services.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Undertaking Group Work

    This subtopic equips learners with essential collaborative skills for health and social care settings, where multidisciplinary teamwork is critical to client outcomes. It covers the theory behind effective group dynamics, practical planning and participation in group activities, and methods for evaluating both individual and collective performance to foster continuous improvement.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    7 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Undertake an Automated Auditory Brainstem Response _AABR_ Newborn Hearing Screen

    This element focuses on the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to perform Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) newborn hearing screening, a critical component of the national newborn hearing screening programme (NHSP). It covers the correct application of AABR technology, strict adherence to national protocols, effective communication of results to parents or carers, and accurate record-keeping in line with professional standards. The aim is to ensure early detection of hearing impairment, facilitating timely intervention and optimal developmental outcomes for newborns.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    7 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Managing symptoms in end of life care

    Managing symptoms in end of life care involves a holistic, person-centred approach that addresses physical, psychological, social, and spiritual distress. Learners must understand common symptoms such as pain, nausea, breathlessness, and agitation, and apply evidence-based interventions while considering individual preferences and dignity. Effective symptom management is integrated into ongoing assessment, care planning, and multidisciplinary teamwork to improve quality of life for the dying person and their families.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Promote Continuous Development in Care Settings

    This subtopic focuses on enabling learners to understand their role's competency requirements, actively pursue personal development, and harness reflective practice to enhance care delivery. It emphasises the integration of leadership behaviours to drive continuous improvement within adult care settings, ensuring high-quality, person-centred support.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Using Grammar and Punctuation

    This topic covers correct use of grammar and punctuation for Level 2 study in health sciences. Learners must demonstrate accurate written English.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Promote Health and Wellbeing in Care Settings

    This subtopic focuses on the proactive role of care workers in recognising and nurturing the holistic wellbeing of individuals within care settings. It emphasises the integration of continuous health monitoring, person-centred assessment, and responsive interventions to maintain and enhance physical, mental, and social health. Effective promotion of wellbeing requires a collaborative approach, empowering individuals to participate in their own care while aligning with regulatory frameworks and best practice standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Undertake an Automated Auditory Response (AABR) Newborn Hearing Screen

    This subtopic equips learners with the practical competence to perform Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) newborn hearing screening, a key component of the national NHS Newborn Hearing Screening Programme (NHSP). It covers the underpinning principles, hands-on testing techniques, adherence to strict national protocols, and the interpersonal skills needed to communicate outcomes sensitively to parents. Successful screening enables early identification of permanent childhood hearing impairment, facilitating timely referral and support interventions.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Collate and communicate health information to individuals

    This subtopic addresses the essential skills and knowledge required by healthcare support workers to ethically and legally collate health information from various sources and communicate it clearly to individuals. It covers key legislation such as the Data Protection Act and GDPR, national guidelines on confidentiality and consent, and best practices for ensuring information is accurate, accessible, and shared in a person-centred manner that promotes understanding and supports informed decision-making.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Meet food safety requirements when providing food and drink for individuals

    This element ensures care workers can safely handle food and drink for vulnerable individuals, preventing foodborne illnesses through strict hygiene and safety protocols. It covers personal hygiene, safe preparation, serving, clearing, and storage, aligned with legal requirements like the Food Safety Act 1990. Applying these measures protects health and upholds dignity in care settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Research Theory in Adult Care

    This element equips care leaders with the theoretical foundations and practical skills to design robust research that improves service delivery and outcomes. Learners critically examine paradigms like positivism and interpretivism, select appropriate methodologies (quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods), and learn to ethically plan a feasible project addressing a real-world adult care issue.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Monitor and maintain the environment and resources during and after health care activities

    This subtopic equips learners with the competence to uphold a safe, hygienic, and well-organized care environment through systematic monitoring and resource management. It covers essential procedures for routine inspection, safe operation, and effective cleaning of equipment and surroundings, directly reducing infection risks and promoting service user dignity and safety.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Undertake an Automated Oto-Acoustic Emissions _AOAE_ Newborn Hearing Screen

    This subtopic develops the competence required to perform newborn hearing screenings using Automated Oto-Acoustic Emissions (AOAE) in accordance with the UK Newborn Hearing Screening Programme (NHSP) protocols. Learners will acquire the practical skills for conducting the test, interpreting outcomes, and communicating results sensitively to parents. The subtopic also covers accurate data recording, system interrogation, and adherence to quality assurance and professional standards, ensuring screeners can effectively contribute to early identification of hearing impairment.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Safeguarding

    This element concentrates on the strategic leadership responsibilities for embedding comprehensive safeguarding frameworks within adult care settings. It requires managers to understand statutory and regulatory requirements, such as the Care Act 2014 and local safeguarding protocols, and to translate these into effective organisational practices. The practical application involves leading culture change, ensuring staff competence, and managing inter-agency collaboration to protect vulnerable adults from abuse and harm.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Valuing Equality and Diversity

    This subtopic explores the fundamental concepts of equality, diversity, and discrimination within health and social care settings. Learners will examine how valuing individual differences and promoting inclusive practice are essential for delivering person-centred care and complying with legal frameworks. Understanding these principles enables care workers to challenge unfair treatment and support the rights of all service users.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Communicate with children and young people in care settings

    This element focuses on the essential skills required to communicate effectively with children and young people in care settings, ensuring their individual needs, wishes, and preferences are met. It explores the rationale and practical application of play and distraction techniques to facilitate understanding, reduce anxiety, and promote cooperation during care routines.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Promote Nutrition and Hydration in Adult Care Settings

    This element focuses on the critical role of care workers in promoting optimal nutrition and hydration within adult care settings. It encompasses understanding the components of a balanced diet, applying national nutritional guidelines, and implementing person-centred strategies to prevent malnutrition. Learners will develop skills in conducting nutritional screening, monitoring dietary intake, and adapting care to meet diverse, individual-specific dietary requirements while adhering to regulatory and best practice standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Move and position individuals in accordance with their care plan

    This subtopic covers the essential knowledge and skills required to safely move and position individuals in care settings, following their person-centred care plan. It integrates understanding of key legislation and human anatomy to minimise risk of injury to both the individual and the care worker, ensuring dignity and promoting independence.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Undertake an Automated Oto-Acoustic Emissions (AOAE) Newborn Hearing Screen

    This subtopic focuses on the knowledge and skills required to competently perform Automated Oto-Acoustic Emissions (AOAE) newborn hearing screening in line with the national NHS Newborn Hearing Screening Programme protocols. It encompasses the scientific principles of the test, practical techniques for obtaining clear results, effective communication with parents about outcomes, and accurate data recording and management to ensure timely follow-up and referral.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Sexuality and Sexual Health in Adult Care

    This subtopic examines the fundamental role of sexuality and sexual health in the holistic wellbeing of adults receiving care. It equips leaders with the knowledge to challenge stigma, uphold rights, and implement person-centred policies that respect diverse sexual identities and promote healthy relationships. Practical application involves developing inclusive care plans, training staff, and ensuring environments support sexual expression safely and legally.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Word Processing

    This unit focuses on developing practical word processing skills essential for creating professional documents in health and social care settings, such as care plans, reports, and correspondence. Learners will become proficient in document creation, text manipulation, image integration, and file management, ensuring they can produce clear, well-structured, and accurate written communications that meet workplace standards. Mastery of these skills supports effective record-keeping and information sharing, critical for safe and efficient practice in health sciences environments.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Promote Personal Wellbeing in Care Settings

    This element focuses on developing the adult care worker's ability to recognise and proactively maintain their own physical, psychological and emotional wellbeing. It emphasises that personal wellbeing is foundational to professional resilience, enabling the delivery of safe, compassionate and effective care. Learners explore the impact of stress and anxiety on their practice and acquire practical strategies for self-care, reflective practice and seeking support to sustain their capacity to meet the demands of the role.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Communicate with individuals about promoting their health and wellbeing

    This element equips healthcare support workers with essential communication skills to promote holistic health and wellbeing. It involves analysing the World Health Organization’s definition of health, understanding biopsychosocial factors that influence wellbeing, and applying person-centred communication techniques to empower individuals. Practical application focuses on initiating sensitive conversations that encourage individuals to address personal health concerns while respecting autonomy and cultural diversity.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Provide agreed support for foot care

    This element covers the knowledge and skills required to support individuals with foot care in a care setting. It includes recognizing abnormalities, preparing for and delivering safe foot care, promoting independence, and accurately documenting and reporting. The practical application is essential for maintaining mobility, comfort, and overall wellbeing of adults in care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Undertake Diabetic Retinopathy imaging

    This element focuses on the practical and theoretical competencies required to successfully capture, assess, and manage retinal images as part of the diabetic eye screening pathway. Learners must demonstrate proficiency in operating a retinal camera, obtaining diagnostic-quality images, troubleshooting common imaging challenges, and making informed decisions about image gradability and onward referral according to national screening protocols. The content emphasises patient safety, infection control, and adherence to standard operating procedures to ensure effective population-level screening for diabetic retinopathy.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes13 guidance points

    Supervising Others

    Professional supervision in adult care is a structured process that ensures staff are supported, developed, and held accountable for delivering high-quality, person-centred care. This subtopic covers the theoretical underpinnings of supervision, including its functions to educate, support, and manage performance, and equips leaders with the skills to conduct regular, effective supervision sessions. In practice, it means establishing a culture of continuous improvement where supervision is embedded into care delivery, leading to safer services and better outcomes for those receiving support.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Conduct External Ear Examinations

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and skills to safely perform external ear examinations in a healthcare support role. It covers relevant legislation, anatomy, examination techniques, and accurate record-keeping, ensuring patient-centred care and compliance with national standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Obtain and test capillary blood samples

    This subtopic covers the essential skills and knowledge required to safely obtain and test capillary blood samples in care settings, primarily for monitoring conditions such as diabetes. It integrates understanding of relevant legislation (e.g., Health and Safety at Work Act, COSHH), anatomical site selection, infection control, and accurate recording to ensure person-centred, safe practice. Mastery of these competencies enables care workers to perform routine blood glucose monitoring effectively, aiding in timely clinical decisions and promoting service user well-being.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Writing Skills

    This subtopic develops essential writing competencies for learners intending to pursue careers or further study in health sciences. It covers accurate grammar usage, selection of appropriate writing styles for different professional documents, systematic planning techniques, and the structuring of coherent academic essays. Mastery of these skills ensures effective communication within healthcare settings and enhances academic success.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Team Leadership

    Team leadership involves providing direction and managing teamwork within adult care settings. It covers leading a team effectively, fostering collaboration, and ensuring high-quality care. Learners will develop skills to motivate staff and resolve conflicts.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Obtain and test specimens from individuals

    This element covers the essential procedures for safely obtaining, handling, testing, and storing specimens from individuals in care settings, underpinned by relevant legislation and best practice. It emphasizes infection control, accurate documentation, and maintaining dignity and consent throughout the process. Mastery ensures specimens are viable for testing, results are reliable, and individuals' rights are protected.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Provide support for mobility

    This unit focuses on the crucial role of supporting adults in maintaining or improving their mobility within care settings. It covers the significance of mobility for physical and psychological wellbeing, safe preparation and execution of mobility activities, and the importance of accurate observation and documentation to inform care plans and ensure positive outcomes.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Undertake Diabetic Retinopathy Imaging

    This element covers the practical skills and underpinning knowledge required to competently capture high-quality retinal images for diabetic retinopathy screening. Learners must demonstrate proficiency in equipment preparation, image acquisition, troubleshooting common issues, and assessing image quality against established grading criteria. Accurate record-keeping and adherence to post-screening protocols are critical to ensure continuity of care and compliance with national screening standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Conduct hearing assessments

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills to perform hearing assessments safely and accurately within healthcare settings. It covers the anatomy and physiology of the ear, adherence to legal and professional frameworks, equipment maintenance, preparation, and the systematic process of conducting assessments, recording outcomes, and reporting findings appropriately.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Carry Out Initial Assessments to Prioritise the Needs of Substance Users

    This element equips care workers with the skills to conduct thorough initial assessments of individuals with substance use issues. Learners will explore the physiological and psychological effects of various substances, enabling them to evaluate an individual’s use patterns and their motivation for change. The aim is to identify immediate needs, prioritise risks, and facilitate appropriate referrals to specialist support services.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Reflect on Personal Bias in Social Care

    This element guides learners to critically examine their own beliefs, attitudes, and values that may lead to unconscious bias in social care settings. Through structured reflection and self-assessment, practitioners identify potential biases and evaluate their impact on service delivery, relationships, and outcomes. The analysis extends to practical strategies for recognising and mitigating bias, culminating in the creation of a personal action plan to foster equitable, person-centred care.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Addressing Unconscious Bias in Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Neuro-Affirming Approaches to Supporting Autistic Individuals

    This subtopic explores neuro-affirming approaches that recognise autism as a natural variation in human neurology, shifting focus from 'fixing' deficits to respecting autistic identity and promoting well-being. Learners examine practical strategies for supporting autistic individuals by valuing their unique strengths, facilitating their involvement in decisions, and co-producing personalised support plans that align with their authentic needs and preferences.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understanding Treatment and Transitional Care for Addiction in Social Care

    This subtopic delves into the array of evidence-based treatments for addiction, encompassing both pharmacological and psychosocial interventions, and examines the complex barriers that prevent individuals from accessing these services. It further explores transitional care, which is essential for maintaining recovery gains by providing structured support during critical periods of change, such as moving from detoxification to community-based programmes or re-entering society after residential treatment.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Addiction Recovery in Health and Social Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Developing Interview Skills for Advice Work - Housing

    This element develops the core interviewing competencies required to conduct effective housing advice sessions, ensuring clients with housing problems are supported appropriately and ethically. It covers structuring the interview, applying active listening, asking relevant questions, and making accurate referrals, while also recognising the importance of advisor self-care and professional boundaries. Practical application involves role-playing realistic housing scenarios, such as homelessness, rent arrears, or disrepair, to build confidence and adherence to legal and organisational frameworks.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Recognition and Management of Illness and Injury in the Workplace

    This subtopic covers the comprehensive first aid procedures for recognizing and managing a range of workplace illnesses and injuries, from conducting a systematic secondary survey to providing specific care for fractures, head and spinal trauma, chest injuries, burns, eye injuries, poisoning, anaphylaxis, and major medical conditions. Learners are expected to apply theoretical knowledge in simulated practical scenarios, prioritizing casualty safety, effective communication, and adherence to current first aid protocols. The focus is on building competence to manage both acute and potentially life-threatening situations until professional medical help arrives.

    NOCN Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Understanding Domestic Abuse Within a Social and Historical Context

    This subtopic explores the social and historical construction of domestic abuse as a manifestation of gender-based violence, tracing patriarchal norms that perpetuate abuse. It examines the interplay between gender roles, sexual abuse, and the compounding effects on survivors, while also highlighting the systemic barriers faced by disadvantaged groups. Understanding these contexts is crucial for effective, survivor-centred support and recovery planning.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Preventing and Tackling Domestic Abuse

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Control Work Operations Safely

    This subtopic equips learners with the practical skills to systematically control work operations in line with health and safety legislation, focusing on hazard identification, risk assessment, and the implementation of robust control measures within health and social care settings. It integrates legal responsibilities, effective communication, and accurate record-keeping to ensure safe practices protect employees, service users, and visitors. Successful application of these competencies leads to a proactive safety culture and compliance with regulatory requirements.

    NOCN Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Business Development

    This subtopic focuses on the strategic development of adult care services through effective business planning. It explores the systems, processes, and cultural enablers necessary to support sustainable growth and change, equipping leaders to create, communicate, execute, and evaluate business plans that enhance service provision in a competitive and regulated health and social care environment.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Critical Thinking Skills

    Critical thinking is the disciplined process of actively analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information to reach evidence-based conclusions. In health sciences, it underpins clinical decision-making, enabling practitioners to assess patient needs, interpret research, and challenge assumptions to ensure safe, effective care.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understanding Safeguarding in Adult Health and Social Care

    This element equips learners with the knowledge and skills to safeguard adults at risk within health and social care settings. It covers the legal and policy frameworks that underpin safeguarding, recognition of different types of abuse and indicators, appropriate responses to disclosures or suspicions, and preventive strategies to minimise harm. Practical application involves applying this understanding to real-world scenarios, ensuring compliance with multi-agency procedures and promoting a safe environment for individuals.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Dignity and Safeguarding in Adult Health and Social Care

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Understanding How to Provide Support for Pain Management and Discomfort

    This subtopic explores holistic pain management strategies within end-of-life care, integrating pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. It emphasises the importance of person-centred care, respecting individual beliefs, desires, and needs while assisting in pain reduction and systematically monitoring, recording, and reporting to ensure effective symptom control.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Positive Risk-Taking and Promoting Independence

    This subtopic explores the balance between safeguarding and empowering individuals with learning disabilities through positive risk-taking, which involves making informed choices that enhance autonomy while managing potential harm. It examines practical techniques such as person-centred planning, graded exposure, and advocacy to foster independence in daily living, social participation, and decision-making. Learners apply these concepts to real-world scenarios, recognising the unique needs and preferences of each individual.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Introduction to the Adult Social Care Sector

    This subtopic introduces learners to the adult social care sector, focusing on the diverse types of support available, such as domiciliary care, residential care, respite care, and supported living, and the range of job roles including care workers, support workers, and activity coordinators. It underpins foundational knowledge for anyone pursuing a career in adult social care, highlighting the person-centred approach and regulatory framework.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Dementia Care Practice

    This subtopic examines the fundamental principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion within dementia care, emphasising the FREDIE model (Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Engagement) to combat discrimination and promote person-centred support. Learners explore practical strategies to adapt care approaches so that the unique needs and preferences of individuals with dementia are met, ensuring their active participation in decisions about their own lives. The focus is on upholding dignity and rights, fostering an inclusive care environment that values each person's identity and life history.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Dementia Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Communication

    This element explores the pivotal role of effective communication in adult social care, emphasizing the need to tailor interactions to meet each individual’s unique language needs, wishes, and preferences. It covers practical strategies for promoting clear, respectful, and person-centred communication, including the safe use of aids and technologies, while underpinning all practices with a strong understanding of confidentiality principles. Mastery of these skills ensures that care workers can build trusting relationships, support autonomy, and comply with legal and ethical standards.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Administer oral nutritional products to individuals

    This subtopic focuses on the safe administration of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) to individuals, ensuring compliance with legal frameworks, national guidelines, and local policies. It covers the identification of common nutritional products, their uses in managing malnutrition or specific dietary needs, and the management of adverse reactions. Learners must demonstrate competence in preparing and administering these products while maintaining accurate stock records to safeguard individual health and wellbeing.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introductory awareness of health and safety in health, social care and children’s and young people’s settings

    This element introduces learners to the fundamental principles of health and safety within care settings, emphasizing the shared responsibility of employers and workers to maintain a safe environment. It covers the importance of identifying and managing risks, understanding key health and safety procedures such as fire safety, moving and handling, and first aid, and implementing measures to prevent the spread of infection. The knowledge gained is essential for safeguarding the well-being of service users, staff, and visitors in health, social care, and children's and young people's settings.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Understanding Medicine Supply, Storage and Disposal

    This subtopic explores the safe and legal procedures for medicine supply, including prescription protocols, pharmacy dispensing, and over-the-counter sales, alongside the critical importance of correct storage conditions to maintain therapeutic efficacy and prevent misuse. It also covers proper disposal methods to safeguard individuals and the environment, ensuring compliance with legislation such as the Controlled Waste Regulations. Learners gain practical skills to manage medicines safely in health and social care settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Safe Handling of Medicines

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Provide support to individuals to continue recommended therapies

    This subtopic focuses on the role of adult care workers in enabling individuals to maintain prescribed therapeutic regimens. It covers the motivational, practical, and observational responsibilities necessary to support therapy continuation, ensuring positive health outcomes and promoting independence. Learners will develop skills in monitoring, recording, and reporting, as well as contributing to the review process to adapt care as needs change.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    6 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Conduct routine maintenance on clinical equipment

    This subtopic focuses on the systematic process of performing routine maintenance on clinical equipment within a healthcare support setting. It covers the essential knowledge of legal and professional standards, practical preparation, execution of maintenance tasks, and accurate reporting. Applied effectively, it ensures equipment reliability, patient safety, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Personal development in care settings

    This subtopic focuses on enabling care workers to take ownership of their professional growth by understanding competence standards, engaging in reflective practice, creating structured personal development plans, and actively seeking learning opportunities. It underpins safe and effective care delivery by aligning individual performance with regulatory requirements and service user needs, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in care settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Team Learning and Development

    This subtopic focuses on the strategic leadership of learning and development within adult care settings, ensuring that teams are equipped with the skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality, person-centred care. It covers the principles of adult learning, continuous professional development (CPD), and the creation of a learning culture that meets regulatory requirements and promotes service improvement. Effective application involves assessing team capabilities, planning and evaluating development activities, and aligning learning outcomes with organizational goals and safeguarding responsibilities.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Transitions Between Services

    This subtopic explores the critical leadership role in coordinating and managing smooth transitions for individuals moving between care services, such as from hospital to home, between residential settings, or from children's to adult services. Effective transitions require robust assessment, multidisciplinary collaboration, risk management, and person-centred planning to minimise distress and maintain continuity of care. Leaders must ensure that legal frameworks, such as the Care Act 2014, and best practice guidance are embedded in transition protocols to promote individual well-being and independence.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Provide support to manage pain and discomfort

    This subtopic focuses on the essential skills and knowledge required to support individuals in adult care settings who are experiencing pain or discomfort. It covers a range of approaches, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, emphasising person-centred care. Learners will develop competence in assessing pain, implementing strategies to alleviate discomfort, and maintaining accurate records while adhering to organisational and legal requirements.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Prepare environments and resources for use during healthcare activities

    This subtopic focuses on the systematic preparation of clinical environments and resources to support safe, person-centered healthcare activities. Learners must demonstrate competence in selecting, checking, and arranging medical equipment and consumables according to care plans, infection control protocols, and regulatory standards. The ability to promptly and correctly restore spaces for subsequent use ensures continuity of care and compliance with health and safety requirements.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Purpose and Principles of Independent Advocacy

    This element explores the core purpose of independent advocacy in adult care, which is to empower individuals to express their views, secure their rights, and access services. It examines the underpinning principles such as independence, confidentiality, and person-centredness, tracing the historical development of advocacy from informal support to a statutory service. The practical application lies in enabling care workers to understand when and how to involve advocates to support decision-making and safeguard individuals’ interests.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Prepare for and carry out extended feeding techniques

    This subtopic equips care workers with the knowledge and skills to safely prepare for and perform extended feeding techniques, such as enteral feeding via nasogastric or gastrostomy tubes, or modified oral feeding methods for individuals with dysphagia. It ensures learners can apply relevant legislation and agreed ways of working, understand the underlying anatomy and physiology, manage associated risks, and maintain accurate records to support nutrition and hydration in line with care plans.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Contribute to the discharge of individuals to carers

    This element focuses on the healthcare support worker's role in the safe, person-centred discharge of individuals into the care of informal or formal carers. It covers understanding organisational policies and legislation (e.g., Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act), collaborative planning with multidisciplinary teams, practical preparation of the individual and their carers, and effective contribution to the discharge process. Ensuring continuity of care, accurate documentation, and promoting dignity and independence are central to the learning outcomes.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Quality Improvement in Adult Care

    This element equips learners to critically engage with quality improvement processes in adult care settings. It covers the key quality standards (e.g., CQC fundamental standards, NICE guidelines), the cyclical nature of quality assurance (audit, feedback, change, review), and the individual care worker's accountability in implementing and monitoring standards to enhance service user outcomes.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Prepare individuals for healthcare activities

    This subtopic focuses on equipping care practitioners with the knowledge and skills to safely prepare individuals for healthcare activities, such as medical examinations, treatments, or personal care procedures, in line with current legislation, person-centred values, and organisational policies. It covers the legal frameworks governing consent and capacity, the practical steps to ensure physical and emotional readiness, and the importance of accurate documentation to maintain continuity and accountability.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Principles of positive risk taking for individuals with disabilities

    This element explores how positive risk taking empowers individuals with disabilities to exercise choice and control over their lives, enhancing their independence and quality of life. It emphasises a person-centred approach to risk assessment that balances safety with the individual's right to take informed risks, supported by relevant legislation and policies. Carers learn to facilitate decision-making and implement risk management strategies that promote autonomy while safeguarding wellbeing.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Recognise Indications of Substance Use and Refer Individuals to Specialists

    This subtopic equips adult care practitioners with the knowledge to identify physical, psychological, and behavioural signs of substance use, apply relevant legislation and organisational policies, and conduct risk assessments to safeguard individuals. It also covers effective referral pathways, ensuring timely access to specialist support services while maintaining dignity, confidentiality, and person-centred care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Principles of self-directed support

    This topic covers the principles of self-directed support, including how to support individuals to direct their own support and develop support plans. Learners will understand personal budgets and the outcome-focused review process.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Contribute to the safe use of medical devices in the perioperative environment

    This subtopic focuses on the critical role of healthcare support workers in ensuring the safe use of medical devices within the perioperative environment, emphasizing adherence to strict health and safety protocols to prevent patient harm and maintain a sterile field. Learners develop practical skills in checking device functionality, handling instruments aseptically, verifying the integrity and sterility of instrument trays, and safely disposing of contaminated items in line with infection control policies.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Resource Management

    This element explores the effective management of physical, financial, and human resources within an adult care setting. It emphasises aligning resource allocation with person-centred care goals, ensuring sustainability, and meeting regulatory standards. Learners examine their responsibilities in monitoring resource quality, minimising waste, and contributing to continuous improvement in care delivery.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Safeguarding in Care Settings

    This element focuses on equipping adult care workers with the knowledge and skills to uphold safeguarding duties within care settings, ensuring the protection of vulnerable adults. It covers the legislative and policy context, identification of abuse types and indicators, prevention strategies, reporting procedures, and the principles of online safety. Successful application of this knowledge enables practitioners to create safer environments and respond effectively to safeguarding concerns.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Principles of supporting an individual to maintain personal hygiene

    This subtopic covers the fundamental principles underpinning the support of individuals to maintain personal hygiene within care settings. It explores the significance of hygiene for physical health, psychological well-being, and social inclusion, while equipping learners with the skills to promote independence, dignity, and choice. Practical approaches to encouraging and assisting with personal care are examined, alongside the recognition of how changes in hygiene practices can signal underlying health, emotional, or safeguarding concerns.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Control the use of physical resources in a health setting

    This subtopic focuses on the effective management and stewardship of physical resources—such as equipment, consumables, and supplies—within a healthcare environment. Learners develop the skills to operate within local policies and protocols, ensuring resources are used efficiently to maintain service quality while controlling costs. Mastery of this area enables healthcare support workers to contribute to financial sustainability, compliance, and safe patient care through prudent monitoring and team guidance.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Stroke Awareness

    This element equips adult care practitioners with essential knowledge of stroke, including its pathophysiology, symptoms, and causes, enabling early recognition and effective response. It emphasises proactive risk factor management to prevent strokes and details the critical importance of immediate emergency action and acute treatments to minimise brain damage and improve outcomes. Long-term management strategies, including rehabilitation and person-centred care, are also covered to support survivors' recovery and quality of life.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Coordinate the progress of individuals through care pathways

    This subtopic focuses on the healthcare support worker's role in coordinating an individual's journey through various health and social care services, ensuring seamless transitions and continuity of care. It requires knowledge of current legislation such as the Care Act 2014, national guidelines from NICE, local policies, and best practice protocols to safeguard individuals and promote their wellbeing. Effective coordination involves collaborative working, accurate record-keeping, and advocating for the individual to navigate complex care pathways smoothly.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Principles of supporting individuals with a learning disability to access healthcare

    This subtopic focuses on the key principles of enabling individuals with learning disabilities to effectively access healthcare services. It covers the legislative framework, the function of various healthcare providers, the roles of professionals, and the critical importance of health action plans and regular checks in maintaining long-term wellbeing. Practical application involves applying this knowledge to advocate for and support individuals in overcoming barriers to healthcare.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Supervision Skills

    This subtopic explores the essential attributes and responsibilities of an effective supervisor within adult care settings, including fostering staff development, ensuring compliance with care standards, and maintaining service quality. It examines the structured benefits of supervision for enhancing practitioner competence and confidence, as well as the critical protocols for observing and assessing new staff to verify their skills. Understanding the detrimental impact of poor supervision underscores the necessity for robust supervisory practices to safeguard service user outcomes.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Promote nutrition and hydration in health and social care settings

    This element equips learners with the knowledge and skills to promote adequate nutrition and hydration within health and social care settings, which is vital for maintaining health, preventing malnutrition, and supporting recovery. It covers understanding balanced diets and nutritional guidelines, practical strategies for encouraging food and fluid intake, using screening tools like MUST to identify risk, and accurately recording and monitoring consumption while respecting individual needs and preferences.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Deliver exercise sessions to improve individuals' health and wellbeing

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with the knowledge and skills to plan and deliver safe, effective exercise sessions tailored to individual care needs. It integrates legal and professional standards with practical delivery, focusing on physiological effects, equipment use, and person-centred programme design. Mastery ensures improved physical function and wellbeing for individuals in care settings.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Promote Positive Behaviour

    This element focuses on equipping care workers with the knowledge and skills to promote positive behaviour through understanding relevant legislation, frameworks, and policies. It covers the practical application of proactive and reactive strategies, the ethical use of restrictive interventions, and the importance of post-incident support and continuous review to ensure person-centred, safe practice.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Deliver training through demonstration and instruction

    This subtopic focuses on equipping healthcare support workers with the skills to effectively deliver practical training through demonstration and instruction. It covers planning sessions, using clear communication techniques, and adapting methods to meet individual learner needs, ensuring competence in clinical tasks within a care environment.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Support Individuals at the End of Life

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate, holistic care to individuals nearing the end of life. It examines the ethical, legal, and emotional dimensions of supporting dying individuals and their key people, ensuring dignity, respect, and quality of life until death. Learners will apply advance care planning, manage symptoms, and provide bereavement support while maintaining professional boundaries and self-care.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    6 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Coaching and Mentoring in Adult Care

    Coaching and mentoring are vital for developing staff in adult care settings. This topic covers the role of coaching and mentoring, and how to lead and manage such support. Effective coaching improves practice, confidence, and quality of care.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Change Management

    This topic covers change management in adult care settings. Learners must understand their role in supporting service direction, implementing changes, and managing team dynamics during change.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Principles of Safeguarding

    This element introduces the fundamental principles underpinning safeguarding in social care, focusing on the legal and ethical framework, multi-agency responsibilities, and the specific vulnerabilities of individuals with learning disabilities. It equips learners to recognise signs of abuse, understand reporting procedures, and apply safeguarding protocols in practical scenarios to promote a person-centred, rights-based approach.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Duty of Care

    This element explores the fundamental principles of duty of care and duty of candour within adult social care settings. It equips learners with the knowledge to navigate ethical dilemmas, handle complaints effectively, respond to incidents and errors with transparency, and manage confrontation in a professional manner to safeguard the well-being of individuals.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Information, Advice or Guidance Work with Groups

    This element focuses on the principles and practices of delivering information, advice, or guidance (IAG) within group settings. It explores the dynamics of group interactions, effective session planning, and evaluation methods to ensure participants' needs are met. Learners will understand how to foster collaboration and manage group processes to facilitate positive outcomes.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance, NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Understanding How to Work in End of Life Care

    This element explores the diverse cultural, spiritual and personal perspectives on death and dying, alongside the key legal, ethical and policy frameworks governing end of life care. It equips learners to recognise communication needs of individuals at the end of life and to identify appropriate support services for them and their families.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introductory awareness of person-centred support in health, social care and children’s and young people’s settings

    This subtopic introduces learners to the foundational concept of person-centred support, where the individual's preferences, needs, and values are placed at the heart of all care and support activities. It explores how this approach respects the uniqueness of each person, promotes dignity, and fosters collaborative relationships between care workers and those they support. Practical application includes recognising that simple adjustments—such as offering choice in daily routines or involving individuals in decision-making—can significantly enhance well-being and independence in health, social care, and children's settings.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Data Handling and Probability

    This subtopic develops essential statistical literacy for health sciences, enabling learners to extract, interpret, and present data accurately. It covers the critical distinction between discrete and continuous data, appropriate graphical representation, and the calculation of averages and range to summarise health-related information. Proficiency in these skills underpins evidence-based practice, from analysing patient outcomes to evaluating treatment efficacy.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Person Centred Care to Support Individuals with Dementia

    Person-centred care is a holistic approach that places the individual with dementia at the heart of all care decisions, emphasising their preferences, life history, and unique identity. This subtopic explores how care workers can build meaningful relationships through empathy and active listening, while employing strategies to maintain dignity and respect in every interaction. Practical application involves integrating life story work to enhance communication and tailor support, ensuring care is not just task-focused but genuinely empowering.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Dementia Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Unconscious Bias and Equality in Social Care

    This subtopic explores the foundational principles of equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion in social care, and examines how unconscious bias can undermine these principles. Learners will analyse the impact of unrecognised attitudes on service delivery and outcomes, and develop practical strategies to foster inclusive environments that actively combat bias. Understanding these connections is vital for delivering person-centred care that respects individual differences.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Addressing Unconscious Bias in Social Care

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Advise and inform individuals on managing their condition

    This subtopic explores the healthcare support worker's role in empowering individuals to effectively manage long-term conditions through tailored information, advice, and lifestyle adaptation plans. Learners examine principles of identifying information needs, understanding diverse health conditions, and addressing psychosocial impacts of lifestyle changes. Practical application involves collaborative goal-setting, safeguarding autonomy, and evaluating advice efficacy within ethical and professional boundaries.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Promoting Inclusion, Equity and Equality for Autistic Individuals

    This subtopic explores the fundamental principles of inclusion, equity, and equality in the context of autism, emphasising the removal of barriers that prevent full societal participation. Learners will examine practical strategies for designing inclusive environments—ranging from sensory-friendly adjustments to communication supports—and critically evaluate how such practices enhance well-being and quality of life. The focus is on shifting from mere physical integration to meaningful social inclusion, underpinned by rights-based approaches and person-centred care, with direct application in health, education, and community settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to the Values and Principles of Adult Social Care

    This subtopic introduces the fundamental values and principles that underpin adult social care practice, including dignity, respect, independence, and choice. It emphasizes the practical application of these values in promoting person-centred care and explores the critical role of diversity in ensuring services are inclusive and responsive to individual needs.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Developing Interview Skills for Advice Work – Benefits

    This element focuses on equipping learners with the practical skills to conduct effective interviews with clients presenting benefit-related issues, ensuring the advice process is client-centred and legally compliant. It also emphasises the importance of advisor self-awareness and knowledge of internal and external support mechanisms to maintain professional resilience and deliver accurate guidance within a welfare rights context. Mastery of these skills is essential for accurate diagnosis of entitlement, empathetic communication, and safeguarding client welfare.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Detect retinal disease and classify diabetic retinopathy

    This element equips learners with the skills to systematically assess retinal images for diabetic retinopathy and other eye diseases using national grading standards. It covers the use of digital grading software, image quality evaluation, accurate disease classification, and effective communication of findings to ensure appropriate patient referral and management. Mastery of these competencies is essential for health screeners to contribute to the prevention of vision loss through early detection and timely intervention.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Develop Procedures to Safely Control Work Operations

    Developing procedures to safely control work operations involves translating legal responsibilities and hazard identification into practical, documented safe systems of work. This subtopic equips learners to design, implement, and communicate control measures that mitigate risks in their specific workplace context, ensuring compliance with legislation like the Health and Safety at Work Act. Effective procedure development also requires worker consultation and a plan for ongoing review to maintain relevance.

    NOCN Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Promotion of General Health and Well-being

    This topic covers methods of health promotion planning and practical application. Learners must outline the scientific basis of health promotion and identify opportunities for implementation.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Support Individuals Through Technology Enabled Care Services

    This subtopic explores how technology-enabled care services (TECS) can enhance independence and quality of life for individuals receiving adult care. It covers the practical application of assistive technology, telehealth, and telecare systems, emphasizing person-centred approaches. Learners will develop skills to support individuals and families in selecting, using, and evaluating TECS to meet personalised care outcomes.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Detect Retinal Disease and Classify Diabetic Retinopathy

    This topic covers the detection of retinal disease and classification of diabetic retinopathy using grading software. Learners must understand image quality assessment, national standards, grading pathways, and communication of results.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Anatomy and physiology for maternity support workers

    This subtopic equips maternity support workers with essential knowledge of the female reproductive system, breast anatomy, and the physiological adaptations during pregnancy. A solid grasp of these foundations enables safe monitoring of maternal health, effective communication with healthcare teams, and appropriate support during antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal periods.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Understanding the Role of the Care During the Process of Death

    This element explores the multifaceted role of the carer during the dying process, including providing physical comfort and emotional reassurance to the dying individual, carrying out dignified care after death, and offering sensitive support to family and friends. It also examines key legislation and policies that govern end-of-life care, ensuring that learners understand their legal and ethical responsibilities in practice.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Awareness of sensory loss

    This element focuses on building awareness of sensory loss within care settings, exploring its causes, impact on individuals, and effective communication strategies. Learners gain essential skills to recognise signs of sensory loss and report concerns, ensuring person-centred support that promotes independence and well-being. Practical application involves implementing adaptations to overcome barriers faced by individuals with hearing, sight, or dual sensory impairments.

    NOCN Level 2 Diploma in Care (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Comments and Complaints

    This subtopic equips leaders in adult care with the skills to manage feedback systems strategically, ensuring that both positive comments and formal complaints are handled in line with regulatory requirements and used as catalysts for service improvement. It covers the design and oversight of robust procedures, the leadership of a transparent and learning-oriented culture, and the practical application of communication, investigation, and resolution techniques to uphold person-centred values, safety, and legal compliance.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Introductory awareness of the importance of healthy eating and drinking for adults

    This subtopic introduces learners to the foundational principles of nutrition and hydration within adult care settings. It covers how a balanced diet and sufficient fluid intake promote physical and mental health, aid recovery, and prevent complications like malnutrition and dehydration. The focus is on practical awareness, enabling learners to support individuals in making healthy choices aligned with care plans and regulatory standards.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Human Rights

    This subtopic equips learners to understand the legal and ethical frameworks underpinning equality, diversity, inclusion and human rights in adult social care settings. It develops practical skills for working inclusively, respecting individuals' unique backgrounds and preferences, and promotes the ability to seek out relevant information and support when needed to uphold these principles in daily care delivery.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Deliver a Presentation

    This element develops the skills to design, deliver and reflect upon effective presentations within health sciences. Learners explore various presentation styles and their suitability for different professional contexts, such as patient education, team briefings or academic sharing. Practical competence is gained through preparing and delivering a structured audio-visual presentation, followed by critical self-evaluation to foster continuous improvement.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Communicating and Sharing Information Online

    This subtopic addresses the essential competencies required for adult care workers to communicate and share information digitally while upholding professional standards and safeguarding. Learners will explore a range of online communication tools, learn to curate a reputable online identity, and critically examine the physical and psychological hazards of technology use. The focus is on applying this knowledge to minimise risks to both staff and service users in line with data protection and health and safety legislation.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    5 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Investigate and Evaluate Health and Safety Incidents and Complaints at Work

    This subtopic covers the systematic process of investigating workplace health and safety incidents and complaints, ensuring legal compliance and continuous improvement. Learners must demonstrate the ability to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and compile reports that meet regulatory standards. The practical application involves using real workplace scenarios to identify root causes and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

    NOCN Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Supporting Choice and Minimising Risk for Individuals with Dementia

    This element focuses on balancing the promotion of autonomy and dignity with the duty of care when supporting individuals with dementia. It equips learners with the knowledge to apply positive risk-taking principles, enabling person-centred decisions that enhance independence while implementing proportionate safeguards. Through practical case-study application, learners develop skills to negotiate risk collaboratively, respecting the individual's rights and preferences in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act and best practice frameworks.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Dementia Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to Information, Advice or Guidance in Schools and Colleges - Policy

    This subtopic explores the statutory framework governing Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) in educational settings, focusing on UK government policies such as the Careers Strategy and the Gatsby Benchmarks. It equips learners with knowledge of how national requirements shape impartial careers provision in schools and colleges, ensuring all young people have access to high-quality guidance to make informed decisions about their futures.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Theoretical Perspectives on Autism

    This subtopic examines the evolution of autism understanding, from early medical model deficits to contemporary neurodiversity-affirming approaches. It explores diagnostic criteria development and the spectrum concept, while critically analysing how societal attitudes create barriers or support for autistic individuals. Learners apply these perspectives to promote inclusive practice in health and social care settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understanding Learning Disabilities

    This element explores the meaning of learning disability, differentiating it from learning difficulties, and examines specific conditions like Down’s syndrome and autism, highlighting their varied impacts on individuals’ daily lives. It equips learners with knowledge of key legislation such as the Equality Act 2010 and the Mental Capacity Act 2005, and how these laws protect rights and promote inclusion. The element also considers the diverse settings—from residential care to community outreach—where social care professionals provide person-centred support to empower individuals with learning disabilities.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Developing Interview Skills for Advice Work – Refugees, Immigrants or Asylum Seekers

    This subtopic equips learners with the skills to conduct effective interviews with refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers, focusing on sensitive communication, understanding legal and support services, and maintaining professional boundaries. Learners will develop competence in advising on complex issues such as asylum procedures, rights, and available resources, while also recognizing the importance of advisor self-care and accessing specialist support networks.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understanding Unconscious Bias

    This element introduces learners to the concept of unconscious bias as automatic, unintentional mental shortcuts that influence decisions and behaviour, with a focus on its critical implications in social care. It explores how such biases—rooted in social categorisation, personal experience, and cultural norms—can inadvertently affect the quality, equity, and dignity of care provided to diverse individuals. Crucially, the content examines real-world care scenarios where unconscious bias may lead to discriminatory practice, compromised safeguarding, and ethical breaches, preparing learners to recognise and mitigate these risks in professional settings.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Addressing Unconscious Bias in Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Continuous Development

    This subtopic focuses on the leader's commitment to continuous professional and personal development within adult care settings. It explores the integration of self-awareness and reflective practice to enhance leadership effectiveness, while emphasising practical strategies for managing workload and maintaining resilience. Learners will develop skills to identify learning needs, set development goals, and implement time management techniques that align with organisational and regulatory requirements.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introductory awareness of working with others in health, social care and children’s and young people’s settings

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental principles of effective teamwork and partnership working within health, social care, and children’s settings. It covers the importance of clear communication, mutual respect, and shared goals when collaborating with colleagues, service users, and other professionals. Learners will explore how different roles contribute to holistic care and the benefits of integrated approaches in supporting individuals' needs.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Conflict Resolution

    This subtopic explores the common causes of conflict within adult care environments, including communication breakdowns, unmet needs, and resource limitations. It examines historical approaches to conflict management and evaluates a range of interpersonal and organisational styles, equipping learners with evidence-based techniques to de-escalate situations, promote positive outcomes, and uphold person-centred values. Mastery of these skills is essential for maintaining a safe, respectful, and effective care setting.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Introduction to Information, Advice or Guidance in Schools and Colleges - Practice

    This element focuses on the practical application of information, advice and guidance (IAG) within educational settings. Learners will explore their specific responsibilities, including ethical and legal boundaries, and develop the skills to plan effective IAG activities tailored to the needs of students. The aim is to ensure practitioners can deliver impartial, confidential and accurate support while adhering to organisational and national standards.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Assist and support individuals to use alternative and augmentative communication systems (AAC)

    This subtopic focuses on enabling healthcare support workers to effectively assist individuals who use alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) systems, ranging from simple picture boards to sophisticated speech-generating devices. It covers the legal and ethical frameworks, practical preparation of equipment, and person-centred strategies to promote autonomy and meaningful interaction. Mastery ensures that support is tailored, dignified, and compliant with national guidelines, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those with communication challenges.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Genetics

    This subtopic explores the fundamental principles of genetics, including inheritance patterns, DNA structure, and gene expression. It examines the transformative role of genetics in modern healthcare, forensics, and agriculture, while critically addressing the ethical, legal, and social implications of genetic technologies. Learners gain insight into how genetic knowledge shapes personal and professional practice in health sciences.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Engage in personal development in health, social care or children's and young people's settings

    This unit focuses on the essential skills of self-assessment and continuous improvement required of a health screener. Learners will explore how to meet professional competence standards, systematically reflect on their practice, and evaluate their own performance. The unit emphasises the creation and maintenance of a personal development plan, utilising learning opportunities and reflective practice to drive ongoing professional growth in the screening environment.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Personal Actions to Reduce Risks to Health and Safety

    This subtopic empowers learners to take ownership of their own safety and that of others by embedding risk-reducing behaviours into daily practice. It covers interpreting workplace instructions, fulfilling legal responsibilities, operating tools and substances correctly, and maintaining professional conduct to prevent accidents and ill-health in health and social care settings.

    NOCN Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Review Health and Safety Procedures at Workplaces Other than Their Own

    This element equips learners with the skills to systematically review health and safety procedures in external workplaces, covering preparation, conducting the review using appropriate methods, and post-review actions such as reporting findings and recommending improvements. It is critical for professionals ensuring compliance and enhancing safety across multiple sites, such as supplier audits or client premises assessments.

    NOCN Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Assist in implementing treatment programmes for individuals with severely reduced movement/mobility

    This element focuses on the role of the healthcare support worker in assisting with treatment programmes for individuals with severe mobility restrictions. It covers legal frameworks, anatomical and physiological considerations, and the practical skills needed to safely and effectively implement prescribed interventions. Learners will develop the competence to support individuals in maintaining or improving their movement and mobility within the scope of their role.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to Information, Advice or Guidance in Schools and Colleges - Principles

    This subtopic explores the foundational principles of information, advice, and guidance (IAG) within educational settings. It clarifies the distinct yet interconnected roles of providing factual information, offering advice based on that information, and delivering guidance to support learners in making informed decisions. Learners will understand how effective IAG provision in schools and colleges helps individuals navigate educational pathways, career options, and personal development.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Creating and Editing Documents and Processing Numerical Data in an Adult Care Setting

    This unit equips learners with essential administrative skills for managing information in adult care environments. It covers the accurate processing of numerical data commonly encountered in care settings, such as fluid balance records, staffing ratios, and medication counts. Learners will also develop proficiency in creating and formatting charts to visualise data, and in producing professional documents tailored to different purposes and audiences, ensuring compliance with confidentiality and regulatory standards.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    4 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Health and Safety in a Laboratory Environment

    This element focuses on the fundamental principles and practical application of health and safety within a laboratory environment relevant to health sciences. Learners develop the knowledge and skills to identify hazards, conduct risk assessments, and implement control measures to maintain a safe workspace. The emphasis is on compliance with legislation such as COSHH and safe operational practices when using laboratory equipment and substances.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understand the principles and values in health and social care _adults and children and young people_, early years and childcare

    This subtopic explores the foundational principles and values essential for working in health, social care, early years, and childcare settings, such as dignity, respect, confidentiality, and person-centred practice. Learners will understand how these values guide interactions with adults, children, and young people who access services, ensuring their rights and preferences are upheld. Application is demonstrated through everyday care practices that promote equality, inclusion, and empowerment, tailored to individual needs across diverse care environments.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Continuous Improvement

    This element explores the leadership requirements for embedding a culture of continuous quality improvement in adult care settings. It focuses on practical strategies for managing change, fostering innovation, and measuring enhanced outcomes for individuals, aligning with regulatory standards and best practices.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Health Screening Principles

    This subtopic explores the foundational principles of population health screening, encompassing national policies, ethical obligations for informed consent, and the psychological impact on service users. It equips learners with the knowledge to ensure quality through adherence to standards and clinical governance frameworks, directly applicable to their role as competent health screeners.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Health, Safety, and Principles of Basic Life Support

    This element equips learners with the knowledge and skills to maintain health, safety, and security in adult social care settings. It covers responsibilities under legislation and workplace policies, risk assessment, safe moving and handling, and emergency procedures including basic life support. Learners also explore safe practices for medication, hazardous substances, fire safety, and the importance of personal mental wellbeing.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes14 guidance points

    Assist in planning and evaluating learning activities

    This subtopic examines the healthcare support worker's role in contributing to the planning and evaluation of learning activities within health and social care settings. It integrates knowledge of key legislation, national guidelines, and person-centred approaches to support individuals' development, while also emphasising the importance of understanding diverse learning styles and collaborative multidisciplinary working.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Infection Prevention and Control (IPC)

    This element focuses on the essential principles and practices for preventing and controlling infections in adult social care settings. It covers standard precautions including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe handling of waste and linen, and the importance of maintaining a clean environment to protect vulnerable individuals from healthcare-associated infections.

    NOCN Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Health Promotion

    This element explores the fundamental concepts of health and ill-health, examining biomedical, holistic, and social models. Learners investigate the rationale behind health promotion—empowering individuals and communities to enhance well-being and reduce inequalities. Practical application involves planning evidence-based health promotion activities tailored to specific target groups, considering ethical, cultural, and resource factors.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Employment and Study in Health Sciences

    4 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Develop and Implement Reablement Plans

    This subtopic focuses on the principles and practical application of reablement within adult care, emphasizing the promotion of independence through activities of daily living. Learners will explore how to develop person-centred, time-limited plans that maximise an individual's potential, and effectively implement these plans using available resources and multidisciplinary collaboration.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England)

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Managing Statistical Information to Support Information, Advice or Guidance Practice

    This subtopic explores the critical role of statistical information in evaluating and enhancing Information, Advice or Guidance (IAG) services. Practitioners must understand how to collect, manage, and utilise data within quality frameworks and management information systems to ensure compliance, inform practice, and uphold data protection principles. Mastering these competencies enables evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement in client-centred support.

    NOCN Level 3 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Managing Information

    Managing information in the context of information, advice or guidance involves identifying relevant resources, selecting appropriate media to deliver information to clients, and understanding the systems that store and retrieve that information securely and efficiently. This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge to match client needs with available support, use various communication channels effectively, and navigate organisational procedures for information management, ensuring confidentiality and accessibility.

    NOCN Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Health Screening Principles

    This subtopic explores the foundational principles underpinning health screening programmes, including the policies and procedures that ensure ethical, effective, and person-centred practice. It examines the critical balance between population benefit and individual autonomy through informed choice and consent, while also addressing the quality assurance frameworks and clinical governance structures that maintain service standards and safety. Learners will understand how screening impacts individuals psychologically and physically, and how key performance indicators drive continuous improvement.

    NOCN Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners

    5 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Supervise Health, Safety and Welfare of Individuals at Work

    This element focuses on the practical skills required to effectively oversee the health, safety and welfare of workers in real workplace settings. It encompasses planning supervision activities, verifying prerequisites before individuals commence tasks, and maintaining continual oversight to ensure compliance and wellbeing. Learners must demonstrate the ability to apply relevant legislation and organisational policies dynamically as work progresses.

    NOCN Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understand the range of service provision and roles within health and social care _adults and children and young people_, early years and childcare

    This subtopic explores the diverse services provided in health, social care, and early years settings for adults and children/young people, including statutory, private, and voluntary sectors. It also examines the key roles and responsibilities of professionals within these services, emphasizing how different roles work together to meet individual needs. Understanding provision and roles is fundamental for learners beginning a career in the sector, enabling them to identify appropriate services and pathways.

    NOCN Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Decision Making

    This subtopic explores the critical role of decision-making in adult care leadership, equipping learners with the skills to make informed, ethical, and timely decisions that enhance care quality. It covers decision-making theories, the impact of legal and regulatory frameworks, and the practical application of structured approaches in complex care environments. Learners will develop the ability to lead decision-making processes, involve stakeholders, and reflect on outcomes to foster continuous improvement.

    NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

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