Hi Sheila,

I work for a care company but want to go self employed as a carer I have done my level 2 in hsc I have a level 3 in line management and I’ve done a dementia course. Another friend is going self-employed also, but we are working as individuals not a company. Is it possible for me to start straight to level 5 instead of doing level 3? Any advice would be very appreciated.

– Donna

Answered by Sheila Scott

Dear Donna,

I asked Neil Crawford from Access Skills (http://www.accessskills.co.uk/) as I wanted to have an expert in the training and education sector to give the response.

Here is what Neil said.

“It would always be helpful if you have completed the Level 3 in Health and Social Care, and even better if you have completed the Level 4 recently re introduced.  The Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for H&SC does include H&SC units at Level’s 3,4 and 5 and you will be required to demonstrate the necessary knowledge and competency in these to achieve the Level 5 Diploma. If you do obtain the Level 4 H&SC then some of these same units are included in the Level 5, and you should be able to work with your training provider to transfer the credit for these over to the Level 5. This can reduce the burden for you in completing this qualification.

If you have not previously achieved these qualifications then you will have to ensure that you are able to demonstrate this level of knowledge understanding and competency in performing the leadership and management role you now occupy. It is possible to do this but more challenging if you have not got prior understanding, knowledge, competency and qualifications you can draw upon obtained before the role you currently occupy.”

Best wishes.

Sheila