Suppose you’re considering becoming a Healthcare Assistant (HCA) in the UK. In that case, you’re probably wondering what kind of training and qualifications you need to get started—especially if you’re aiming to work in the NHS. The good news is you don’t always need formal qualifications to begin your HCA journey, but having the proper training and certifications can make a big difference. They help you feel more confident, get hired faster, and ensure you’re delivering safe, high-quality care to patients.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential and optional training you’ll need, how to get the Care Certificate, and how to build a strong foundation to launch your career in healthcare.
Do You Need Qualifications to Be an HCA?
Let’s start with the most common question.
No, you don’t need a degree or formal qualifications to become a Healthcare Assistant. This is why it’s such a popular starting point for people entering the healthcare field, whether you’re fresh out of school or changing careers later in life.
However, here’s what you do need:
A caring and patient attitude
Good communication skills (spoken and written English)
Willingness to complete training
A clean criminal record (enhanced DBS check is often required)
Reliability and punctuality — two traits every employer values
Some NHS roles will mention needing GCSEs (or equivalent Level 2 qualifications) in English and Maths, but not all of them. It often depends on the Trust or department. Even if you don’t have GCSEs, you can still apply and start with care homes or private agencies.
Tip: If you’re already working in a non-clinical NHS role (e.g. cleaner, porter, admin), you can transfer internally to a Healthcare Assistant post through the NHS Step.
Mandatory Training for HCAs in the UK
Most HCAs complete a set of mandatory or statutory training modules. These are often required before you start working unsupervised with patients.
1. Moving and Handling
This teaches you how to help people who need assistance with mobility safely. You’ll learn how to use equipment like hoists, slide sheets, and transfer belts properly.
Why it matters: Improper lifting or positioning can cause serious injuries to both patients and staff. This training protects everyone.
2. Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR
You’ll be trained to recognise emergencies and provide basic life support, including CPR for adults and sometimes infants. This is life-saving knowledge that every HCA must have.
For example, in an NHS ward, if a patient becomes unresponsive, you may be the first person to raise the alarm and start CPR while nurses or doctors arrive.
3. Infection Control
You’ll learn how to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings, from hand hygiene to PPE use.
Includes: How to properly wash your hands, when to wear gloves or aprons, and how to dispose of contaminated waste.
Why it’s crucial: Since COVID-19, infection control has become even more essential. NHS guidelines are strict, and patients’ lives depend on it.
4. Health and Safety
This covers general safety rules in healthcare environments — like how to handle chemicals, deal with fire hazards, and avoid slips or falls.
Real-life relevance: You’ll often work with equipment, wires, trolleys, and patients with complex needs. Being aware of your surroundings is key.
5. Safeguarding Adults and Children
This training helps you understand how to recognise abuse, neglect, or exploitation — and how to report it.
For example, if you notice bruises on a vulnerable adult that don’t match their story, you’ll know how to raise a safeguarding concern correctly.
6. Manual Handling
This focuses on lifting objects (not people), using equipment safely, and preventing back injuries.
Includes: Techniques for pushing beds, lifting supplies, and adjusting furniture safely without strain.
What is the Care Certificate?
The Care Certificate is a set of 15 standards that all health and social care workers in the UK are expected to meet. It’s not a qualification, but it’s essential if you’re new to care. It gives you a solid understanding of your responsibilities and helps you deliver better, safer care.
The 15 Care Certificate Standards include:
Privacy and dignity
Fluids and nutrition
Mental health, dementia, and learning disability
Communication
Person-centred care
Equality and inclusion
Duty of care
Who provides it?
Most care employers, including NHS Trusts and private providers, will train you for the Care Certificate on the job and assess your competency over 12–15 weeks.
NHS-Specific Requirements
If you’re applying for a Healthcare Assistant role in the NHS, here are some specific expectations:
You must pass an enhanced DBS check.
You’ll often complete online NHS e-learning before your first shift.
Some roles require you to shadow experienced HCAs or attend induction sessions.
You’ll likely receive a uniform and ID badge after induction.
NHS Pro Tip: Once you’re in the system, you may get access to funded training and career progression opportunities, such as becoming a Nursing Associate or studying to become a Registered Nurse while working.
Optional but Highly Useful HCA Courses
Going above and beyond the basics shows initiative and sets you apart. Here are a few valuable courses you might consider, especially if you’re applying for specialist wards or community care roles.
1. Dementia Awareness
Vital for roles in elderly care or memory wards. You’ll learn how to respond with empathy and patience to individuals living with dementia.
2. Autism Awareness
Great for those interested in supporting children or adults with learning difficulties. Helps improve communication and build Trust.
3. End-of-Life and Palliative Care
Teaches you how to provide emotional and physical support to those nearing the end of life. Sensitive care is key in hospice settings.
4. Mental Health Awareness
Prepares you to understand conditions like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Especially helpful if you work in community teams or mental health units.
5. Nutrition and Hydration
Necessary for meal prep, supporting feeding, and spotting signs of malnutrition or dehydration—common in elderly and post-op patients.
Where Can You Do HCA Training?
Here are some popular places where you can complete your HCA training:
Free Options:
NHS Trusts: Often provide complete training and the Care Certificate after hiring
Alison.com / FutureLearn: Free intro healthcare courses (with optional paid certificates)
Skills for Care: Official UK guidance and resources
– Paid (Budget-friendly) Training:
Florence Academy: Offers Care Certificate and CPD-accredited training
Caredemy: A highly rated online platform for care staff
Reed Courses: Search for discounted healthcare courses in your area
What to Do Next (Simple Action Plan)
Here’s a realistic step-by-step plan if you’re starting:
-Research HCA jobs near you — on NHS Jobs or local care agencies
– Complete a free infection control or introductory life support course online
-Prepare a simple CV with any customer service or caring experience
– Apply and mention your willingness to complete the Care Certificate
– Accept your first job offer — paid training is often included!
-Ask your employer if they offer extra training or career progression
TIPS
Becoming an HCA in the UK is one of the most accessible and rewarding career paths. With compassion, the proper training, and a strong work ethic, you can build a career that’s flexible, secure, and deeply fulfilling.
Whether you’re looking to join the NHS, work in a care home, or support people in their own homes, getting the proper training and certifications will help you feel more prepared and confident — from your first interview to your first shift and beyond.
