If you’re feeling stuck in your current job or looking for a more meaningful career path, the health and social care sector could be your next step forward. With an ageing population and an ever-growing demand for compassionate, qualified professionals, now is the perfect time to make your move.
The QCF Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care was once a leading qualification for care professionals across the UK – but it’s important to know it has since been updated and replaced. The Adult Care Diploma Level 3 (RQF) is now the official, nationally recognised route into the care industry.
QCF vs RQF – What’s Changed?
You may still hear people mention the QCF Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care, particularly in older job descriptions or articles. However, this qualification has been phased out and replaced by a more current framework:
The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) now supports all accredited courses, including health and social care training.
The Adult Care Diploma Level 3 (RQF) is the updated version and offers the same depth, flexibility, and career progression – just aligned with the UK’s most up-to-date qualification standards.
You can explore the most current Adult Care Level 3 RQF course here.
Who Is This Course For?
The Adult Care Diploma Level 3 is ideal for:
- People who feel bored in their current role and want to make a difference
- Career changers looking for security and job satisfaction
- Parents returning to the workforce
- Those with informal care experience who want a formal qualification
- Individuals considering work in residential care, community settings, or supported living
What You’ll Learn
Although the course framework has evolved, the core focus remains the same:
- Supporting individuals with health, mental health, or mobility needs
- Person-centred care and dignity in practice
- Communication, safeguarding, and health & safety
- Promoting independence and well-being
Whether you’re starting from scratch or building on existing experience, you’ll gain real-world skills that are valued in both public and private care sectors.
What’s the Difference Between Health & Social Care Level 3 and Adult Care Level 3?
A question many learners ask is, “What’s the difference between Adult Care Level 3 and Health & Social Care Level 3 (QCF)?”
Here’s the breakdown:
- The QCF Health & Social Care Level 3 was broader and applied to a wide range of care contexts (adult and child) – currently replaced with below.
- The Adult Care Diploma Level 3 (RQF) focuses specifically on adult care environments – such as care homes, home care, and community-based services.
Because the QCF course is no longer open for enrolment, the Adult Care RQF diploma is the direct and up-to-date route into the care industry. It’s still flexible, recognised across the UK, and ideal for those aiming for a career in care.
Why Start Now?
It’s common to feel unsure when thinking about a big change. But if you’ve:
- Felt unfulfilled or restless in your current job
- Wanted to work in a role that genuinely helps people
- Needed to upskill without going back into full-time education
- Thought about health and care work, but weren’t sure how to start
…then this could be the perfect entry point. The Adult Care Level 3 Diploma is studied online, allowing you to learn at your own pace while juggling family or work commitments.
If you’re new to studying remotely or want to feel more confident learning from home, this guide from the National Careers Service offers helpful tips to get the most from your online course.
Where Can It Take You?
Once qualified, you’ll be in a strong position to apply for roles such as:
- Healthcare Assistant
- Senior Support Worker
- Residential or Home Care Assistant
- Key Worker in care settings
- Community Outreach or Reablement Assistant
It also opens doors to further qualifications, including specialisations in dementia care, mental health, or team leadership roles.
Begin Your Career in Care Today
With care roles in constant demand across the UK, this is a qualification that can genuinely transform your future – and the lives of those you’ll support.
Whether you’re starting fresh, returning to work, or switching paths entirely, the Adult Care Level 3 Diploma (RQF) is a respected, flexible way to make it happen.
This could be more than just a qualification – it could be the fresh start you’ve been waiting for.