OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care

The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care is an excellent choice for individuals who want to build a meaningful career in one of the most rewarding sectors. Designed to provide learners with a solid foundation in health and social care, this qualification is ideal for both newcomers to the field and experienced professionals looking to enhance their skills and achieve formal recognition.

This internationally recognised programme equips learners with the knowledge, values, and practical skills needed to support adults in a variety of care settings. From understanding safeguarding and promoting wellbeing to developing effective communication and person-centred approaches, the course covers the essential principles required to deliver high-quality care.

For freshers, the diploma offers a clear entry route into employment within healthcare, residential care, and community support services. For professionals already working in the sector, it provides an opportunity to strengthen expertise, improve career prospects, and progress towards higher-level qualifications in health and social care.

Centres delivering this qualification ensure a flexible and supportive learning environment, making it accessible to learners across the UK and internationally. By completing the OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care, you will be well-prepared to contribute positively to the lives of others, while building a career with long-term growth opportunities.

Are you ready to unlock your potential and chart your path to success with the OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care? The journey awaits! Enroll Now!

  • OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care
  • 3 Mandatory units + 3 Optional Units
  • 300 Guided Learning Hours
  • 6-12 Months Course Duration
  • OTHM is an Awarding Body that is recognised and approved by Ofqual to develop and award qualifications. Inspire College of Technologies is Approved Training Centre of OTHM.

Learners who wish to enrol in the OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care must meet the following entry criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 16 years old at the start of the course.
  • Educational Background: A Level 2 qualification or equivalent is preferred. However, learners with relevant work experience in health and social care may also be considered.
  • Language Proficiency: As the course is taught in English, learners should demonstrate competence in written and spoken English. For non-native speakers, an English language qualification such as IELTS or an equivalent standard may be required.
  • Suitability: A genuine interest in working within the health and social care sector, along with the motivation to support adults in various care environments, is essential.

These entry requirements ensure that learners have the appropriate foundation and commitment to succeed in the programme while preparing for both employment opportunities and further progression within the field.

Mandatory Units

The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care qualification 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

  • Responsibilities of a Health and Social Care Worker
  • Person-centered Approaches in Health and Social Care Settings
  • Effective Communication and Ethical Practice in Health and Social Care  

Optional units: Choose any Three

  • Health Promotion
  • Diabetes Awareness
  • Stroke Awareness and Management 
  • Dementia Awareness
  • Mental Health Awareness 
  • Physical Disability Awareness 
  • Effective Handling of Information in Health and Social Care Settings 

Learning outcomes for OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies

Mandatory Units

1. Responsibilities of a Health and Social Care Worker

  • Understand the key roles and responsibilities of professionals in adult health and social care settings.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of safeguarding principles, duty of care, and regulatory frameworks.
  • Apply safe working practices while promoting dignity, respect, and wellbeing.
  • Develop skills in working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.

2. Person-Centred Approaches in Health and Social Care Settings

  • Recognise the importance of treating individuals with dignity, respect, and compassion.
  • Apply person-centred planning to meet individual care and support needs.
  • Promote independence, choice, and inclusion in everyday care.
  • Evaluate how cultural, social, and personal factors influence care delivery.

3. Effective Communication and Ethical Practice in Health and Social Care

  • Develop effective verbal, non-verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Understand the role of active listening, empathy, and confidentiality in care.
  • Apply professional codes of conduct and ethical frameworks in practice.
  • Identify and resolve barriers to effective communication in diverse care environments.

Optional Units (Select 3)

Health Promotion

  • Understand the principles of promoting health and wellbeing within communities.
  • Plan, implement, and evaluate health promotion activities.
  • Explore the impact of lifestyle choices on long-term health outcomes.

Diabetes Awareness

  • Recognise the causes, symptoms, and risk factors of diabetes.
  • Support individuals in managing diabetes effectively through lifestyle and treatment plans.
  • Understand the importance of monitoring, prevention, and education in diabetes care.

Stroke Awareness and Management

  • Identify the signs, symptoms, and risk factors of strokes.
  • Understand immediate and long-term care needs of individuals recovering from strokes.
  • Support rehabilitation and independence in stroke survivors.

Dementia Awareness

  • Understand the different types and stages of dementia.
  • Recognise the challenges faced by individuals and families.
  • Apply supportive strategies to enhance quality of life and dignity.

Mental Health Awareness

  • Develop an understanding of common mental health conditions.
  • Explore the impact of stigma, discrimination, and inequality in mental health.
  • Support individuals with appropriate interventions, empathy, and referral pathways.

Physical Disability Awareness

  • Recognise the challenges and barriers faced by individuals with physical disabilities.
  • Apply inclusive practices to promote independence and participation.
  • Support equal opportunities and accessibility within care environments.

Effective Handling of Information in Health and Social Care Settings

  • Understand the importance of accurate record-keeping and data management.
  • Apply confidentiality, data protection, and GDPR principles in care settings.
  • Demonstrate safe and ethical practices when handling sensitive information.

The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care is designed for a wide range of learners who are passionate about making a positive difference in people’s lives. It serves as both an entry point into the health and social care sector and a professional development pathway for those already working in the field.

This course is particularly suitable for:

  • Fresh Learners and School Leavers
    Individuals who are new to the sector and looking to build a rewarding career in health and social care. It provides a strong foundation in essential principles, preparing learners for entry-level roles in care homes, community support services, and healthcare environments.
  • Aspiring Health and Social Care Professionals
    Those who wish to progress into the health and social care workforce but require a formal qualification to gain recognition and access better career opportunities.
  • Current Care Workers and Support Staff
    Professionals already working in health and social care who want to enhance their knowledge, improve practice standards, and progress into supervisory or specialised roles.
  • Career Changers
    Individuals seeking a meaningful career transition into the health and social care sector. This diploma offers the skills and knowledge required to confidently step into a new role.
  • International Learners
    Students outside the UK who are seeking an internationally recognised qualification in health and social care to strengthen their career prospects globally.

Overall, this course is ideal for anyone with a genuine interest in supporting adults in diverse care settings, promoting independence, wellbeing, and dignity while gaining a professional qualification that opens doors to further study and career advancement.

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.

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FAQs for OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care

The OTHM Level 3 Diploma in Adult Health and Social Care is a recognised qualification that provides learners with the knowledge, skills, and values required to work effectively in health and social care settings. It is suitable for both beginners and professionals seeking career progression.

This course is ideal for fresh learners, school leavers, current care workers, and individuals seeking a career change. It is also open to international learners who want an accredited qualification to strengthen their career prospects in the health and social care sector.

Learners must be at least 16 years old. A Level 2 qualification or equivalent is preferred, although work experience in health and social care may also be considered. Good written and spoken English skills are essential, especially for non-native speakers.

The duration may vary depending on the study mode (full-time, part-time, or distance learning). On average, learners complete the diploma within 6–12 months.

The course includes mandatory units such as Responsibilities of a Health and Social Care Worker, Person-Centred Approaches, and Effective Communication and Ethical Practice. Learners can also choose from optional units like Dementia Awareness, Diabetes Awareness, Mental Health Awareness, and more.

Graduates can pursue roles such as care assistant, support worker, healthcare worker, residential care staff, or community care worker. The diploma also provides a pathway to higher-level qualifications in health and social care.

Yes. OTHM qualifications are regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) and recognised globally, making them valuable for both UK-based and international learners.

Absolutely. Successful learners can progress to OTHM Level 4 qualifications or equivalent programmes in health and social care, leading to advanced study and professional development opportunities.

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