Overview

The Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care, awarded by ICQ, is designed for experienced care workers who are ready to take on more responsibility and advance their careers in adult social care. This qualification builds on foundational knowledge and focuses on developing the skills and behaviours needed to lead care delivery with confidence and compassion.

 

Who is this for?

Learners:​

• Experienced care workers looking to progress

• Senior care assistants or support workers

• Staff moving into lead or supervisory roles

• Individuals aiming to formalise and develop their leadership skills in care

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Employers:

• Care home providers

• Domiciliary care agencies

• NHS support service employers

• Local authorities and charities offering adult social care

 

Course Content

The Level 3 Diploma covers a wide range of advanced knowledge and skills, including:

• Promoting person-centred approaches in care

• Supporting individuals with specific needs (e.g., dementia, mental health)

• Leading and supporting teams in care settings

• Promoting health, safety, and well-being

• Handling information in care settings

• Safeguarding and protection responsibilities

• Managing personal development in a care context

• Supporting positive risk-taking and independence

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​Duration

• Typically 6 to 12 months

• Flexible delivery: online, or blended formats

• Designed to fit around full-time or part-time work

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Eligibility

• Employment: Staff must be directly employed at the time of undertaking and completing the training.

• Role: Staff should be working in non-regulated roles but with responsibilities that reflect Level 3 practice, such as team leading, mentoring, or specialist support.

 

Funding

The Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS), launched by the Department of Health and Social Care, provides funding to help the non-regulated adult social care workforce complete training courses and qualifications. This includes the ICQ Level 2 Certificate in Adult Social Care.

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Key Details:

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• Reimbursement Amount: Employers can claim up to £835 per qualification for courses paid for between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2026.

• Reimbursement Schedule: Employers can claim 60% of the funding once their employee begins the qualification, with the final 40% released upon submission of evidence confirming course completion.

• Eligibility: Staff must have a valid National Insurance number and be directly employed in a care role.

• Claim Process: Employers must have an up-to-date Adult Social Care Workforce Data Set (ASC-WDS) account and complete an expression of interest form to access the online claims service.

 

For detailed guidance on the LDSS, including eligibility criteria and the claims process, visit the Learning and Development Support Scheme for the adult social care workforce: a guide for employers.

 

Entry Requirements

• Typically has completed the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

• Learners should be aged 19+

• Basic literacy and numeracy skills recommended

 

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion, learners may progress to:

• Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care

• Specialised roles in dementia care, learning disabilities, or mental health

 

Employer Benefits

• Demonstrates staff competency and commitment to quality care

• Improves care standards and service outcomes

• Strengthens internal leadership and care delivery capacity

• Enhances service quality and CQC compliance

• Demonstrates investment in staff development

• Enables access to LDSS funding support

• Contributes to staff retention and morale

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