The NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support in the Workplace is a nationally recognized qualification designed for individuals who wish to pursue or advance their career in healthcare support roles. This qualification is ideal for those already working in healthcare environments such as hospitals, clinics, care homes, or community settings, and those who aspire to provide excellent care and support to patients and service users.

The course equips learners with the essential skills to perform a range of healthcare tasks, from assisting with personal care to supporting clinical procedures, all while maintaining high standards of safety, dignity, and professionalism. By gaining this qualification, learners will be prepared for a variety of roles within healthcare, with a focus on practical skills, communication, and the ability to work within a team to provide the highest level of care.

Course Overview

The NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support in the Workplace is designed to provide learners with in-depth knowledge and practical experience in a wide range of healthcare support duties. It focuses on developing the practical, interpersonal, and professional skills required to support patients, clients, and healthcare teams effectively. The qualification emphasizes person-centred care, infection control, communication, and maintaining patient dignity and confidentiality.

This diploma is typically completed through a combination of practical training and coursework, allowing learners to gain hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings. The course is flexible, enabling learners to balance study with work commitments, and can be taken full-time or part-time.

The qualification is designed to be accessible to both new and experienced healthcare support workers who want to gain formal recognition of their skills and enhance their career prospects.

Course Study Units

The NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support in the Workplace consists of a series of core and optional units that cover the various aspects of healthcare support. Some of the key study units typically included in the course are:

Principles of Healthcare Support

This unit introduces learners to the principles of healthcare support, including the importance of person-centred care, dignity, and respect in healthcare settings. Learners will also study the key roles and responsibilities of healthcare support workers.

Health and Safety in the Healthcare Environment

Learners will gain a solid understanding of health and safety regulations in the healthcare setting. This includes infection control, managing risks, and ensuring the physical safety of both patients and staff.

Promoting Health and Well-being

This unit focuses on promoting the health and well-being of individuals under care, with an emphasis on understanding holistic care practices and supporting individuals to make informed choices about their health.

Supporting Individuals with Daily Living

Learners will explore how to provide support with everyday activities, such as personal care, feeding, and mobility, while ensuring the comfort and dignity of the individuals in their care.

Communication in Healthcare Support

Effective communication is crucial in healthcare. This unit covers the principles of communication in healthcare settings, including how to interact with patients, families, and colleagues in a sensitive, clear, and professional manner.

Supporting the Management of Medicines

Learners will be introduced to the safe handling and administration of medicines, including understanding medication guidelines, ensuring correct dosage, and adhering to medication protocols in a healthcare setting.

Working in Partnership with Others

This unit focuses on collaboration and teamwork within healthcare settings. Learners will develop skills in working with other healthcare professionals, patients, families, and carers to provide coordinated, high-quality care.

Understanding the Mental Health Needs of Individuals

Learners will explore the mental health challenges faced by individuals in healthcare settings and how to provide appropriate support, while maintaining compassion and promoting mental well-being.

Supporting Clinical Procedures

This unit covers the skills required to assist with clinical procedures, including preparing and maintaining clinical equipment, assisting with basic clinical tasks, and ensuring the comfort and safety of patients during procedures.

Who Is This Course For?

The NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support in the Workplace is ideal for:

Healthcare Assistants: Individuals currently working as healthcare assistants in hospitals, clinics, or community settings who wish to formalize their knowledge and gain a recognized qualification.

Care Support Workers: Those working in care homes, nursing homes, or domiciliary care who want to enhance their skills in providing person-centred care and improve their career prospects.

Aspiring Healthcare Professionals: People who are looking to enter the healthcare field and gain practical skills to work in support roles such as clinical support workers or patient care assistants.

Existing Healthcare Workers Seeking Career Progression: Healthcare workers who already have experience in the sector but want to gain further expertise, especially those seeking promotion or to take on more responsibility in their roles.

Individuals Looking to Change Careers: If you’re looking to switch to the healthcare sector and make a difference in the lives of others, this course provides an excellent foundation for starting your healthcare career.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support in the Workplace, learners will be able to:

Provide High-Quality Care: Understand the principles of person-centred care and how to apply these principles when supporting patients in various healthcare settings.

Promote Health and Well-Being: Assist in the promotion of the health and well-being of individuals, offering support in daily living activities while maintaining dignity and respect.

Ensure Safety and Hygiene: Implement health and safety protocols, including infection control measures, and ensure that healthcare environments are safe for both patients and staff.

Communicate Effectively: Develop excellent communication skills to interact with patients, families, and colleagues in a clear, compassionate, and professional manner.

Support the Administration of Medicines: Understand the procedures involved in medication administration, ensuring that medicines are handled safely and correctly.

Support Clinical Procedures: Assist in clinical settings by helping with medical procedures, equipment preparation, and patient comfort.

Work Collaboratively: Understand how to work effectively in partnership with other healthcare professionals to provide coordinated care and support for patients.

Course Future Progression

The NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support in the Workplace opens up a range of career and further study opportunities, including:

Career Advancement in Healthcare: Successful completion of the diploma can lead to career progression in various healthcare support roles, such as Senior Healthcare Assistant, Clinical Support Worker, or Health and Social Care Manager.

Further Qualifications: The qualification can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level qualifications in healthcare, such as the Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care or a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care, which are ideal for those wishing to pursue managerial or supervisory roles in the sector.

Specialized Healthcare Roles: Graduates can progress into more specialized healthcare roles, such as working in palliative care, mental health support, or geriatric care, where additional training and skills development may be required.

Further Education: For those wishing to pursue a career in nursing or other healthcare professions, this qualification provides a strong foundation for applying to university programs, such as Nursing Degree or Healthcare Management.

Opportunities for Career Change: If you are looking to transition into healthcare from another sector, this diploma offers the essential skills and qualifications needed to begin your new career in healthcare support.

Conclusion

The NOCN Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support in the Workplace is an excellent qualification for those looking to enter or advance within the healthcare sector. It equips learners with the necessary skills to provide high-quality care, ensure the safety of patients, and work effectively within healthcare teams.

Whether you are a healthcare assistant looking to formalize your expertise or someone considering a career in healthcare, this qualification will provide you with the practical knowledge and skills to thrive in a wide range of healthcare environments. Start your journey towards a rewarding and impactful career in healthcare today!