Qualification Overview

The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Understanding the Principles of Dementia Care is designed to develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of dementia and the principles involved in providing effective care and support to individuals living with dementia.

The qualification explores the nature of dementia, the impact it has on individuals and families, and the approaches used by health and social care professionals to support individuals affected by the condition. It also examines person-centred care approaches, communication strategies, and the importance of promoting dignity, independence, and well-being for individuals living with dementia.

This qualification is widely recognised within the health and social care sector and is suitable for individuals who wish to enhance their knowledge of dementia care, whether they are currently working in care environments or planning to enter the sector.

Qualification Details

• Qualification Level: Level 3
• Minimum Entry Age: 16 years
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 165 hours
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 105 hours

Aims and Objectives

The aim of this qualification is to develop learners’ understanding of dementia and the principles of providing high-quality care and support to individuals living with the condition.

The objectives of the course include:

• Developing an understanding of dementia and its different forms.
• Exploring how dementia affects individuals physically, emotionally, and socially.
• Promoting person-centred approaches in dementia care.
• Developing communication strategies that support individuals with dementia.
• Understanding the rights, choices, and independence of individuals receiving care.
• Promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in dementia care environments.
• Understanding the role of medication and well-being support in dementia care.

The programme aims to support the development of a knowledgeable and compassionate workforce capable of delivering safe, respectful, and person-centred dementia care.

Learning Outcomes

By completing this qualification, learners will be able to:

• Understand the causes, types, and progression of dementia.
• Explain how dementia affects behaviour, communication, and daily life.
• Apply person-centred care approaches when supporting individuals with dementia.
• Demonstrate knowledge of communication and interaction strategies in dementia care.
• Understand how to promote independence and meaningful activities for individuals with dementia.
• Recognise the importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion in care environments.
• Understand how to support individuals with dementia to exercise choice and maintain their rights.
• Recognise the role of medication management and well-being in dementia care.

These learning outcomes help ensure that learners develop a strong understanding of how to support individuals living with dementia while maintaining dignity and quality of life.

Course Duration

The qualification requires approximately:

• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 165 hours
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 105 hours

Depending on the training provider and study mode, the course is typically completed within 3 to 6 months.

The course may be delivered through:

• Online learning
• Distance learning
• Classroom-based learning
• Blended learning formats

Many learners complete the course while working in health or social care roles, allowing them to apply their knowledge in practical settings.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.

However:

• Learners must be at least 16 years old.
• Basic literacy and communication skills are recommended to complete written coursework.
• The qualification is suitable for individuals currently working in the care sector or those interested in developing knowledge of dementia care.

No previous experience in dementia care is required, making the course accessible to a wide range of learners.

Who is this Course for?

This qualification is suitable for individuals who want to improve their knowledge and understanding of dementia and dementia care.

It is particularly relevant for:

• Health and social care workers
• Care assistants
• Support workers
• Residential care staff
• Community carers
• Individuals supporting family members with dementia
• People considering a career in health and social care

The course is also valuable for professionals who wish to develop specialist knowledge to improve the quality of care they provide to individuals living with dementia.

Qualification Structure

To achieve the qualification, learners must successfully complete all mandatory units.

The qualification consists of a series of knowledge-based units that explore dementia care, person-centred approaches, communication strategies, equality and inclusion, and the promotion of well-being.

The structure allows learners to develop a comprehensive understanding of dementia and the skills required to support individuals living with the condition.

Mandatory Units

To achieve the qualification, learners must complete the following mandatory units:

1. Understanding Dementia 
2. Understand How Person-Centred Approaches are Used to Underpin the Care and Support of Individuals With Dementia
3. Principles of Communication and Interaction in Dementia Care and Support 
4. Supporting Positive Interaction, Occupation and Activity in Dementia Care 
5. Principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Dementia Care and Support 
6. Understand How to Support Individuals With Dementia to Exercise Choice and Rights 
7. Principles of the Administration of Medication and Well-Being of Individuals With Dementia 

These units provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of dementia care, focusing on person-centred practice, communication techniques, equality and inclusion, and the well-being of individuals living with dementia.

Assessment Methods

Assessment for this qualification is carried out through internally assessed coursework, which is externally quality assured.

Typical assessment methods include:

• Written assignments
• Knowledge-based questions
• Case study analysis
• Coursework submissions

There are no formal written examinations, allowing learners to demonstrate their knowledge through practical and reflective learning activities.

Career Progression & Pathways

After completing this qualification, learners may progress to further training and qualifications in health and social care.

Possible progression routes include:

• Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
• Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
• Specialist dementia care training programmes

The qualification also provides a strong foundation for further learning in areas such as mental health support, elderly care, and social care services.

Career Opportunities

Although the qualification is knowledge-based, it supports career development in the health and social care sector.

Potential roles include:

• Care Assistant
• Support Worker
• Dementia Care Assistant
• Residential Care Worker
• Community Care Worker

These roles involve supporting individuals with dementia and assisting them with daily living activities while promoting independence and dignity.

Salary Expectations

Salary levels depend on experience, job role, and employer.

Typical salary ranges in dementia care roles include:

• Care Assistant: £19,000 – £25,000 per year
• Support Worker: £20,000 – £28,000 per year
• Senior Care Worker: £25,000 – £32,000 per year

Professionals who gain additional experience and qualifications may progress to supervisory or management positions with higher earning potential.

Payment Options

Course fees and payment options depend on the training provider delivering the qualification.

Common payment options may include:

• Full upfront payment
• Monthly instalment plans