Level 2 Diploma in Health & Social Care Northern Ireland

24 Sep 2026

(6.30pm-9.30pm fortnightly via zoom )

Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Northern Ireland)
Course Code: 610/5273/5
Qualification Type: RQF Level 2 Diploma
Awarding Body: SEG
Endorsed By: Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC)

The Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Northern Ireland) is a work-based qualification designed for individuals working within adult health and social care settings across Northern Ireland.

This qualification has been updated from September 2025 and replaces the previous BIIAB version. It includes the NISCC-recommended Safe and Effective Practice in Care Settings unit as a mandatory component, ensuring learners meet the latest professional standards required within the sector.

The qualification is aligned to the Northern Ireland Health and Social Care Apprenticeship Framework and supports learners in developing the practical skills, knowledge and occupational competence needed to provide safe, effective and person-centred care.

Who is this qualification for?

This course is suitable for individuals currently working or volunteering within the health and social care sector, including:

Care Assistants
Support Workers
Residential Care Staff
Nursing Home Assistants
Community Care Workers
Individuals starting a career in care

Learners must have access to a suitable care setting in order to complete the practical assessment requirements.

Qualification Structure

The qualification consists of 11 mandatory units and incorporates the 7 units from the NISCC-recommended Level 2 Certificate in Safe and Effective Practice.

Learners will develop essential knowledge and practical skills in areas including:

Standards and values underpinning social care practice
Safeguarding in social care services
Safe moving and handling
Environmental health and safety
Safe medication practice
Safe food handling and dysphagia awareness
Emergency first aid in social care
Communication, recording and information sharing
Values-led practice
Health and safety responsibilities
Continuing professional development and reflective practice
Safe and effective practice in care settings

Assessment

Assessment is carried out within the workplace through:

Direct observation of practice
Naturally occurring workplace evidence
Professional discussion
Witness testimonies
Portfolio building

This qualification is competency-based and designed to reflect real working practices within the care sector.

Duration

Typical completion time is approximately 9–12 months, depending on learner progress and workplace opportunities.

Find out more about the qualification and the awarding body here:
https://skillsandeducationgroupawards.co.uk/qualification/level-2-diploma-in-health-and-social-care-northern-ireland/

Delivery

At People 1st, this qualification is delivered through a blended learning approach, designed to fit around busy work schedules, including:

Online Zoom sessions ( fortnightly)
(evening sessions: 6.30pm–9.30pm)
Workplace assessment and support
One-to-one guidance from experienced tutors and assessors

We also work with companies who may wish to arrange daytime group training for employees. Sessions can be delivered face-to-face or online and tailored to meet the specific needs of your staff and workplace.

For more information or to apply, please contact Valerie Foster, in the People 1st Health & Social Care team.

Valerie Foster
M: 07714234921
E: [email protected]

Funding

If you are working a minimum of 21 hours per week in the Health & Social Care sector, you may be eligible to access this course for free at any age through the All-Age Apprenticeships programme. Conditions apply.

If you wish to self-fund, the cost is £850 + VAT.

A good standard of written English and ICT is required.

More information on Funded eligibility, terms and conditions can be found HERE: https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/apprenticeships-ni/

Progression Opportunities

This diploma allows for registration with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC) and enables progression to higher-level qualifications.

After completing this qualification, you can progress to further professional development within the health and social care sector:

Level 3 Diploma in Health & Social Care (Northern Ireland)
https://people-1st.co.uk/qualifications/biiab-level-3-diploma-in-health-social-care-northern-ireland/

Level 3 Certificate in Induction into Health & Social Care (Northern Ireland)
https://people-1st.co.uk/qualifications/biiab-level-3-certificate-in-induction-into-health-and-social-care-northern-ireland/

You could also progress into roles such as:

Care Worker

Senior Care Worker

Community Care Support Officer

Healthcare Assistant

Clinical Support Worker

Therapy Assistant
Specialist care pathways

Course Contact

Valerie Foster

[email protected]

07714234921

FAQ’S

Is this the updated Level 2 Health & Social Care qualification?

Yes. This is the latest updated version of the Level 2 Diploma in Health & Social Care (Northern Ireland), now delivered with SEG Awards and aligned with current Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC) requirements.

What happened to the previous BIIAB qualification?

The previous BIIAB qualification has now transitioned to the updated SEG Awards qualification. The qualification has been refreshed to reflect current industry standards and includes revised units aligned to the Northern Ireland Health & Social Care sector.

Does this qualification include the NISCC-recommended Safe and Effective Practice unit?

Yes. The updated qualification includes the NISCC-recommended Safe and Effective Practice content to help learners meet current professional standards within the care sector in Northern Ireland. This qualification is regulated by CCEA and fully endorsed by the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC).

How is the qualification assessed?

The qualification is assessed through a portfolio of evidence, coursework, reflective practice, practical observations and workplace assessment. There is no traditional written exam.

Who is this qualification suitable for? Is funding available?

This qualification is designed for people working in Health & Social Care settings in Northern Ireland who want to develop their practical skills, knowledge and confidence while gaining a recognised qualification. Funding may be available through the All Age Apprenticeships programme for eligible learners working 21+ hours per week. Contact People 1st and we can check your eligibility.

Do I need to already work in care?

Yes. Learners must be employed within a Health & Social Care setting in Northern Ireland, as workplace evidence and practical assessment form part of the qualification. We welcome enquiries from employers looking to up-skill their workforce. Daytime group training can be delivered face-to-face or online and tailored to suit your organisation and staff needs.

Hear from our students

Patricia Wilson

★★★★★ 5/5

After changing career I was anxious about starting a new course, but People 1st made me feel confident and comfortable. They have encouraged me and provided constant support when I have needed it through my Level 2 and my Level 3 qualifications. They provide the best training and I don’t think I would have been able to complete my qualifications, if it wasn’t for the support they offered me. I will hopefully go on to do more qualifications with People 1st in the future.

Leoní Reilly

★★★★★ 5/5

I’ve just completed my Level 5 Management course with People 1st. I can’t thank them enough for all the help and support I received, from not only my tutor Amanda, but the organisation as a whole. My classes were always well structured and I felt I could ask for help and guidance whenever I needed it. People 1st have helped me take that next step in my career and I will always be eternally grateful.

Michelle Allison

★★★★★ 5/5

Thank you to People 1st and to Caroline Bell for an excellent and informative Assessors Course. From day one, I felt Caroline was there to support me in every way. At times when life got in the way, there was always a check in and she was there to assist with ongoing assignments. The visits and personal discussions were done with a warm welcome and I was at ease completing these which ultimately lead me to successfully completing the course. I am delighted to now be a qualified assessor, thanks to the support of People 1st. I cannot l wait to help and support many other students on their journeys with their own careers.

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Level 2 Diploma in Health & Social Care Northern Ireland

Who is this qualification for?

Qualification Structure

Assessment

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FAQ’S

Hear from our students

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