Certificate in Understanding Dignity & Safeguarding in Adult Health & Social Care

This qualification aims to give learners knowledge and understanding of the key principles of dignity, duty of care and safeguarding as applied to adult health and social care.

Learners will investigate the principles and how they are applied in everyday work contexts. They’ll also have an opportunity to examine the dilemmas that can arise and the consequences when these principles aren’t upheld.

This qualification is designed primarily for individuals working with, or intending to work with, vulnerable adults in the health and social care sectors. It aims to give learners knowledge and understanding of the key principles of dignity, duty of care and safeguarding as applied to adult health and social care.

This qualification contains the following mandatory units:

Understand safeguarding in adult health and social care (R/506/1386)

In this unit learners will gain an understanding of issues relating to safeguarding adults in health and social care. Learners will explore current legislation and explain the roles of different agencies involved in protecting individuals from abuse or harm. The learner will know how to recognise potential and actual abuse and take action in the event of disclosed suspected or alleged abuse or harm. The unit will help learners to understand ways to reduce the likelihood of abuse or harm and sources of information and support available.

Principles of dignity in adult health and social care practice (F/506/1299)

This unit aims to establish some of the key principles of dignity in adult health and social care practice. In this unit learners will explore issues relating to dignity, self-worth and well-being. The learner will know how to apply the principles of dignity and gain an understanding of the importance of professional relationships for supporting dignity in service provision.

Understand duty of care in adult health and social care (K/506/1300)

In this unit learners will explore issues relating to duty of care within the context of adult health and social care. The learner will gain an understanding of possible conflicts and dilemmas faced between duty of care and individuals rights. They will also be able to recognise and report unsafe practice and understand the impact of own actions on individuals and others.

Understand dilemmas and public concerns in adult health and social care (M/506/1301)

In this unit learners will explore potential dilemmas and issues of public concern in adult health and social care. This unit will help learners identify wider issues and how media reporting and people’s perception has impacted on adult health and social care practice and changes to service delivery.

To pass this qualification with Shrewsbury College, students are required to complete the four mandatory units. A formal assessment is completed at the end of each unit and submitted to us for marking.

This course is currently being offered free of charge. If, however, the learner withdraws early without reason, a charge may be incurred to cover the cost of the supplied materials.

If you are interested in enrolling or would like further information, please contact the Distance Learning Team on 01743 653355 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . We will advise you about the course, how to study, examinations if relevant, and tutor support. Please note: If course fees are applicable, then they will be payable at the time of your enrolment.