The Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate is a nationally recognised, Ofqual-regulated qualification developed by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) in partnership with Skills for Care. Launched in June 2024, it’s built on the existing Care Certificate standards and gives care workers a formal, portable qualification that recognises the skills they use every day.
This guide covers what the qualification involves, who it’s for, funding options, how it compares to other Level 2 and 3 qualifications in the sector, and how long it takes to complete.
What Is the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate?
In short: it’s the new standard entry-level qualification for the adult social care workforce, turning the well-established Care Certificate standards into a formally accredited, portable Level 2 qualification.
It’s aimed at people working in adult social care providing person-centred, values-driven care and support to those accessing services, typically under the direction of a manager or supervisor. It’s also open to eligible non-regulated care staff aged 19 and over, including experienced workers who’ve never held a formal qualification.
What Is the Level 2 Health and Social Care Certificate?
You may see this qualification referred to as either the “Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate” or the “Level 2 Health and Social Care Certificate” these generally refer to the same DHSC/Skills for Care-developed qualification, based on the same underlying Care Certificate standards.
What Does the Course Cover?
The qualification is built around the core Care Certificate standards, covering areas such as:
- Understanding your role and duty of care
- Communication and person-centred care
- Safeguarding adults and privacy and dignity
- Health and safety, and handling information
- Supporting individuals with specific needs, including learning disabilities and autistic people
Assessment includes observational assessment in your actual workplace, confirming you can apply these standards safely and consistently in practice, not just in theory.
How Do I Get My NVQ Level 2 Certificate?
The old NVQ framework has been replaced by RQF qualifications like this one, so if you’re searching for how to get an “NVQ Level 2” in care, the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate (or a related Level 2 RQF care qualification) is the current nationally recognised route. To get your certificate, you’ll need to register with an approved training provider working with an Ofqual-recognised awarding organisation, complete the required units, and pass the observational assessment.
Is This Qualification for NHS Staff?
This qualification is specifically designed for the adult social care workforce such as care homes, domiciliary care, and other regulated and non-regulated care settings rather than NHS clinical roles. If you work in an NHS-adjacent care support role, check with your employer or NHS trust which specific qualification framework applies to your position, since NHS training pathways are structured differently.
Level 2 vs Level 3 Adult Social Care Certificate
The Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate is the baseline qualification for direct care workers, while a Level 3 qualification such as the Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care builds on this with more advanced knowledge and responsibility, suited to those progressing beyond a direct care worker role.
Can I Study Online, or for Free?
The knowledge elements of the course are often available online or through flexible learning, but because observational, in-practice assessment is required, it can’t be completed entirely online without any workplace involvement.
It’s rarely free in the sense of no cost at all, but significant employer funding is available. Eligible employers in England can currently claim funding per qualification through the Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS) so it’s always worth asking your employer whether they can claim this on your behalf before paying for the course yourself.
How Much Does It Cost?
Course cost varies by training provider, but the LDSS funding scheme means many eligible employers can reclaim a substantial part or all of the cost per staff member. Always check current LDSS funding rates and eligibility criteria directly with Skills for Care or your training provider, as scheme details and funding caps are updated periodically.
What Is a Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate Equivalent To?
It sits at Level 2 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework broadly comparable to GCSE-level in framework terms, though it’s an occupational competence qualification rather than an academic one, focused on demonstrating genuine workplace skill.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Level 2 in Health and Social Care?
Most new learners complete the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate within around 6 to 8 months, though experienced care workers with existing skills to evidence may complete it faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate?
It’s an Ofqual-regulated, portable Level 2 qualification developed by the DHSC and Skills for Care, based on the existing Care Certificate standards, for adult social care workers.
How long does it take to get a Level 2 in health and social care?
Most new learners complete it within 6 to 8 months, though experienced care workers may finish faster.
What does an NVQ Level 2 equal to?
The old NVQ framework has been replaced by RQF qualifications like this one, which sits at Level 2 broadly comparable to GCSE-level in framework terms.
How much does an NVQ 2 (Level 2 care qualification) cost?
Cost varies by provider, but eligible employers can claim funding per qualification through the Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme.
Can I do a Level 2 course for free?
It’s rarely free outright, but employer funding through the LDSS scheme can cover a substantial part or all of the cost for eligible staff.
Is this qualification the same for NHS staff?
No, it’s designed specifically for the adult social care workforce rather than NHS clinical roles; NHS staff should check their own trust’s training pathway.
Get in Touch with Focus Awards
To find out more or to get in touch, visit our contact page or explore our qualification development services if you need a bespoke qualification developed for your organisation.
You can explore our full range of qualifications on our website at https://focusawards.org.uk/qualification/ or contact us directly at info@focusawards.org.uk or on 0333 3447 388.
