FAQs
Can I get a job without qualifications?
Subject to Disclosure Scotland, character and health checks there are types of post which you can be appointed to without qualifications. However, once in post you will be required to undertake training and obtain the appropriate qualifications in order to continue to work in Health, Housing and Social Care.
Increasingly, the Care Commission requires more senior post holders to be appropriately qualified prior to taking up a new post.
What will qualifications do for me?
The appropriate qualifications will enable individuals to meet one of the key requirements to register with the SSSC. Studying for and obtaining qualifications gives individuals more confidence in their abilities and more job satisfaction. Being able to demonstrate a willingness to undertake formal training is an advantage when looking to progress up the career ladder.
What are the benefits to me of CPD?
For many jobs in the Health, Housing and Social Care industry Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a professional requirement. However, there are a number of additional benefits to gain from participating in CPD:
1. It keeps you up-to-date with current thinking and practice in your sector.
2. It refreshes your skills and helps to ensure that you continue to be a reflective practitioner.
3. Successful completion of CPD courses helps to ensure that your employer and your colleagues recognise your knowledge and expertise.
4. Constantly improving your skills makes you a valuable employee and improves your job security.
5. Developing new skills and areas of knowledge enhances your prospects and opens doors to career development.
6. By taking an active role in designing your own CPD path you can ensure that you have the skills to give you more choice and control over your career direction.
What CPD am I required to undertake?
Every three years, those registered with the SSSC will be required to show they have undertaken Continuing Professional Development in order to remain on the register. The level of CPD required varies according to your level of responsibility. Most of our courses are credit rated and certificated which makes them ideal for demonstrating your commitment to CPD. Please contact us to discuss your CPD requirements.
The SSSC (Scottish Social Services Council) is driving a staged initiative to increase the number of employees in the industry who are appropriately qualified.
By March 2009, 55% of employees in an establishment must have achieved this minimum standard if that establishment is to qualify for increased funding. The SSSC’s current aim is that everybody working in the HHSC sector will have reached level 2 standard by 2012 and that everybody working in that sector will be officially registered with the SSSC.
The aim of this initiative is to improve the status of those working in this vital care sector and to drive up standards of professionalism within the industry.
