Overview

The Level 2 Certificate in Adult Social Care, awarded by ICQ, is designed for individuals starting a career in health and social care or those already working in the sector who wish to formalise their knowledge and skills. It provides a solid foundation in person-centred care and the essential values of the care sector.

 

Who is this for?

Learners:

• Individuals new to adult social care

• Career changers entering the care sector

• Volunteers or unpaid carers seeking formal recognition

• School leavers interested in care work

Employers:

• Care home providers

• Domiciliary care agencies

• NHS support service employers

• Local authorities and charities offering adult social care

 

Course Content

The Level 2 Certificate covers a range of knowledge and practical skills, including:

• Principles of communication in adult social care settings

• Personal development and reflective practice

• Diversity, equality and inclusion

• Safeguarding and protection from abuse

• Duty of care

• Role of the health and social care worker

• Handling information and confidentiality

• Health and safety, infection control, and fire safety

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​Duration

• Typically 3 to 6 months

• Flexible delivery: online, or blended formats

• Part-time study to fit around work commitments

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Eligibility

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

• Role: Staff should be in non-regulated roles within the adult social care workforce.

 

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 £1,540 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

• No formal qualifications required

• Learners should be aged 19+

• Basic literacy and numeracy skills recommended

 

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion, learners may progress to:

• Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care

• Lead Adult Care Worker apprenticeships

• Specialized 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

• Supports CQC inspection readiness

• Attracts funding via LDSS (e.g., Skills for Care)

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