Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care offers a solid foundation for anyone looking to build a rewarding career in the UK’s fast-growing health and social care sector. Whether you’re based in London, Birmingham, Manchester, or anywhere across the UK, this nationally recognised qualification provides the skills and knowledge employers value.
Designed to meet the needs of both aspiring care professionals and those already working in the field, this Level 3 diploma helps learners develop a deep understanding of adult care principles, safeguarding, communication, and person-centred approaches. With flexible study options available, including online learning and part-time schedules, you can balance your studies with work or family commitments.
Ideal for school leavers, career changers, or those aiming for supervisory roles in care settings, the OTHM Level 3 Diploma also acts as a stepping stone towards higher-level qualifications and professional registration. Upon completion, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue roles such as care assistant, support worker, or team leader in residential homes, hospitals, or community settings.
Start your journey today with a qualification that’s respected across the UK health and social care industry. Enrol now and take the first step towards a meaningful and secure career.
The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care is a UK-regulated qualification designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge, skills, and understanding required to work effectively in adult care environments. This Level 3 diploma is ideal for individuals who are either starting their career in health and social care or looking to progress into supervisory and management roles within the sector.
Accredited by OTHM Qualifications and regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation), this course is fully recognised across the UK and internationally, making it a valuable asset for career development. The programme focuses on key areas such as safeguarding, communication, personal development, equality and diversity, and promoting health and well-being.
Learners will develop practical and theoretical expertise aligned with current industry standards, preparing them for roles in residential care, domiciliary care, hospitals, and community support services. The qualification also offers a clear progression route to higher-level studies, including the OTHM Level 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management.
This diploma is delivered through flexible learning formats, including online, blended, and in-centre options, allowing you to study around your existing commitments. Whether you’re based in London, Leeds, Glasgow, or anywhere in the UK, this course provides accessible, high-quality training that supports career advancement in the adult social care sector.
The Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care consists of three mandatory units and three optional units, 60 credits, 600 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT) and the recommended Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for this qualification is a minimum of 300 hours.
Mandatory units
| Sr# | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Responsibilities of a Health and Social Care Worker |
| 2 | Person-centered Approaches in Health and Social Care Settings |
| 3 | Effective Communication and Ethical Practice in Health and Social Care |
Optional units Choose Any Two
| Sr# | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Health Promotion |
| 2 | Diabetes Awareness |
| 3 | Stroke Awareness and Management |
| 4 | Dementia Awareness |
| 5 | Mental Health Awareness |
| 6 | Physical Disability Awareness |
| 7 | Effective Handling of Information in Health and Social Care Settings |
The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care has been carefully developed to meet the diverse needs of learners at different stages of their professional journey. It is an ideal choice for both newcomers who wish to enter the health and social care sector, as well as experienced staff seeking formal recognition, career advancement, or progression to higher-level studies. This course is suitable for:
1. Aspiring Health and Social Care Professionals
- Career starters: Individuals who are new to the sector and want to establish a solid foundation in adult health and social care.
- Entry-level learners: Those looking for a recognized qualification that introduces them to essential principles, values, and practices of providing quality care.
- Motivated individuals: People with a passion for helping others who want to turn their interest into a meaningful and rewarding career path.
2. Current Care Workers and Support Staff
- Care assistants and healthcare aides: Staff currently working in hospitals, residential homes, community care, or private care who want to strengthen their knowledge and skills.
- Support workers and community carers: Those who provide day-to-day assistance to individuals and wish to gain a formal qualification that validates their experience.
- Professional development seekers: Workers aiming to improve their confidence, enhance their professional practice, and gain recognition from employers and peers.
3. Professionals Seeking Career Progression
- Future supervisors and team leaders: Individuals aiming to progress into senior roles with greater responsibility, such as shift leaders, senior care workers, or coordinators.
- Ambitious workers: Care staff who wish to expand their career options and prepare for managerial or specialist pathways within the adult health and social care sector.
- Experienced practitioners: Those looking for opportunities to demonstrate their commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
4. Learners Progressing Academically
- Students preparing for higher-level study: Learners who want to build a strong academic base to move on to Level 4 or Level 5 diplomas in health and social care.
- Future specialists: Individuals planning to continue their education towards professional qualifications in nursing, social work, or health management.
- Long-term career planners: Learners with clear career goals who see this diploma as a stepping stone towards advanced qualifications and professional recognition.
Learning outcomes for OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies:
Mandatory Units
1. Responsibilities of a Health and Social Care Worker
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand the roles, responsibilities, and professional boundaries of a health and social care worker.
- Demonstrate knowledge of legal, ethical, and organisational frameworks that guide practice.
- Apply principles of safeguarding and protection in everyday care work.
- Maintain health, safety, and well-being of service users through responsible practice.
- Reflect on personal accountability, continuous professional development (CPD), and adherence to codes of conduct.
2. Person-Centred Approaches in Health and Social Care Settings
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand the principles and values of person-centred care in adult health and social care.
- Promote independence, dignity, and choice for individuals receiving care.
- Recognise the importance of tailoring care to meet the physical, emotional, cultural, and social needs of service users.
- Apply strategies to support inclusion and equality in care delivery.
- Build trust and supportive relationships that respect individuality and diversity.
3. Effective Communication and Ethical Practice in Health and Social Care
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate the ability to use effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills in care settings.
- Understand barriers to communication and apply strategies to overcome them.
- Uphold ethical standards when handling sensitive information and interacting with service users.
- Apply active listening, empathy, and appropriate language to improve care outcomes.
- Evaluate the role of confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical frameworks in communication practices.
Optional Units (Select 3)
4. Health Promotion
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand the principles and strategies of health promotion in community and care settings.
- Support individuals in making informed lifestyle choices to improve well-being.
- Contribute to campaigns and initiatives that raise awareness of public health issues.
- Apply preventative care approaches to reduce health risks.
5. Diabetes Awareness
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand the causes, symptoms, and complications of diabetes.
- Support individuals in managing diabetes through lifestyle, diet, and medication adherence.
- Recognise the importance of early detection and intervention.
- Apply safe practices in monitoring and responding to diabetes-related health needs.
6. Stroke Awareness and Management
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand the risk factors, causes, and effects of strokes.
- Identify signs and symptoms of strokes and respond appropriately.
- Support individuals recovering from strokes with tailored care plans.
- Promote rehabilitation and independence while addressing physical and emotional needs.
7. Dementia Awareness
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand the types, causes, and progression of dementia.
- Provide person-centred support that addresses memory, behaviour, and communication challenges.
- Recognise the emotional, physical, and social impact of dementia on individuals and families.
- Apply strategies to create safe, supportive, and engaging environments for those with dementia.
8. Mental Health Awareness
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand common mental health conditions, their symptoms, and their impact on daily life.
- Recognise stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health and promote positive attitudes.
- Provide basic support, reassurance, and guidance to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
- Identify when to refer individuals for specialist mental health services.
9. Physical Disability Awareness
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand the different types and causes of physical disabilities.
- Promote independence, mobility, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
- Adapt communication and support strategies to meet individual needs.
- Recognise the role of assistive technology and inclusive practices in supporting physical disabilities.
10. Effective Handling of Information in Health and Social Care Settings
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Understand legal and ethical responsibilities in managing information.
- Apply best practices in recording, storing, and sharing sensitive data.
- Ensure confidentiality and compliance with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR).
- Use secure information systems to support high-quality, safe care delivery.
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Fee Structure for OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies
Future Progression
As this qualification is approved and regulated by Ofqual (Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulation), many universities acknowledge the ability of learners after studying Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care and consider for direct entry into a range of their Bachelor’s degree programmes. For more information visit the OTHM University Progressions webpage.
