Introduction
The Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care Free is one of the most valuable qualifications for individuals who wish to work in the UK’s care sector. It opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in healthcare, adult social care, and support services. But with rising education costs, many aspiring learners wonder: Can I get the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care free of charge?
The answer is yes — in many cases, this qualification can be fully funded through government schemes, apprenticeships, or training providers. This article provides an in-depth guide to free Level 3 health and social care courses, how to apply, eligibility criteria, course structure, and what careers you can pursue after completion.
What Is a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care?
The Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care is a vocational, work-based qualification that provides learners with the knowledge, skills, and competence to work effectively in the health and social care sector. It is often required for senior care positions and for those who want to advance their careers or pursue further education.
It typically covers areas such as:
Safeguarding and protection
Person-centred care
Communication skills
Health and safety
Infection control
Supporting individuals with dementia or learning disabilities
Promoting equality and inclusion
It is recognised by employers across the UK and is equivalent to an A-Level qualification.
Can You Study the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care for Free?
Yes. There are several ways you can access this course without paying tuition fees.
1. Government-Funded Free Courses for Jobs (England)
The UK Government’s Free Courses for Jobs scheme allows eligible adults to study Level 3 qualifications for free. The Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care is included under this initiative in many regions.
Eligibility:
Aged 19 or over
Living in England
Not already holding a full Level 3 qualification (or earning below the income threshold if you do)
Claiming certain benefits (e.g. Universal Credit) or on a low income
How to Apply:
Find a training provider or college that offers the course under the scheme
Apply directly through their website or through your local jobcentre
Note: Availability may vary depending on your region or combined authority (e.g., Greater Manchester, West Midlands).
2. Adult Education Budget (AEB) Funding
Local authorities or combined education areas receive Adult Education Budget (AEB) funding to support adults in gaining qualifications. Many training providers offer the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care for free under AEB.
Eligibility:
19+ adults (some areas extend to age 24 or more)
UK resident for at least 3 years
Income less than £18,525/year (may vary)
In some areas, even if you already have a Level 3, you may still qualify if you’re unemployed or on Universal Credit
3. Apprenticeships
If you are employed in a care role, you may be eligible to take the Level 3 Diploma as part of an apprenticeship, fully funded by your employer and the government.
Benefits:
No tuition fees
Learn while you earn (minimum apprentice wage)
Gain real-world experience in a paid role
Direct route to more advanced qualifications
4. Jobcentre Plus or Employability Programmes
Many Jobcentre-supported back-to-work schemes offer access to free Level 3 Health and Social Care courses as part of employability or retraining packages.
Who it’s for:
Unemployed jobseekers
Career changers
Single parents
Disabled or disadvantaged individuals
Speak with your Work Coach to find out if you’re eligible.
5. Online Learning Platforms Offering Free Funded Places
Several training providers offer fully funded online Level 3 courses through government initiatives:
Examples:
The Skills Network
Strive Training
Vision2Learn
Open Study College (via funding)
Learning Curve Group
They typically include flexible, tutor-supported, and accredited training.
6. Employer Sponsorship
If you are already employed in the care sector, your employer may fund your Level 3 diploma through workforce development programmes, particularly if you are:
A support worker aiming to move into a supervisory role
Working towards compliance with CQC regulations
Identified as a potential team leader or senior carer
Speak with your manager or HR department to explore sponsored options.
Course Structure and Modules
The course includes mandatory and optional units, usually amounting to 58 credits. It is structured to demonstrate competence in your job role.
Core Units Include:
Promote communication in health and social care
Engage in personal development
Promote equality and inclusion
Principles of safeguarding
Health and safety procedures
Handling information securely
Duty of care in practice
Optional Units May Include:
Support individuals with physical disabilities
Support individuals with mental health conditions
Dementia care
End-of-life care
Medication administration
Mode of Study:
Online (self-paced)
Classroom-based (for practical learners)
Blended (a mix of both)
In-person assessments and workplace observations
Duration of the Free Level 3 Diploma
Typical course length:
| Study Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Full-time | 9–12 months |
| Part-time | 12–18 months |
| Apprenticeship | 18–24 months |
| Online flexible | Self-paced (within 12–18 months) |
Awarding Bodies
The following are the most recognised awarding bodies in the UK for this qualification:
NCFE CACHE
City & Guilds
Pearson Edexcel (BTEC)
TQUK
Highfield
Make sure your course is accredited by one of these to ensure employer recognition.
Career Opportunities After Level 3 Diploma
The Level 3 Diploma can lead to a wide range of career paths in health and care services. It is particularly useful for those looking to move into supervisory roles.
Job Roles Include:
Senior Healthcare Assistant
Social Care Worker
Residential Support Worker
Mental Health Support Assistant
Domiciliary Care Worker
Team Leader in a Care Home
Key Worker in children’s settings
Support Worker for people with disabilities
Salary Expectations
| Role | Average Starting Salary |
|---|---|
| Senior Care Assistant | £19,000 – £24,000/year |
| Domiciliary Care Supervisor | £21,000 – £26,000/year |
| Residential Care Officer | £20,000 – £25,000/year |
| Mental Health Support Worker | £22,000 – £28,000/year |
With experience and progression, salaries can increase to over £30,000+ in team leader or management roles.
Progression After Level 3
The qualification supports progression to:
Level 4 Certificate in Health and Social Care
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care
Foundation Degree in Health Studies
Nursing or Social Work (through access courses or apprenticeships)
University entry via UCAS points earned from this qualification
It also counts towards registration with the Skills for Care workforce development framework.
How to Apply
Choose a funded training provider (check Skills for Care, Free Courses for Jobs, or AEB providers)
Check your eligibility (age, location, income, qualifications)
Gather documents (proof of ID, residency, previous qualifications, income/benefits)
Submit application (via online form or contact adviser)
Complete an interview or diagnostic test
Start your course
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care free for everyone?
Not for everyone. Funding depends on eligibility criteria such as age, income, and location. But many adults in the UK can access it for free through government funding or apprenticeships.
Can I study the Level 3 Health and Social Care diploma online for free?
Yes. Many providers offer this qualification 100% online, fully funded through government schemes like Free Courses for Jobs.
How long does it take to complete?
It usually takes 9 to 18 months, depending on study mode and whether you’re working alongside.
Is it equivalent to A-Levels?
Yes. The Level 3 Diploma is equivalent to two A-Levels and is recognised for progression into university or Level 4/5 qualifications.
Do I need a job in care to take this course?
For funded options like apprenticeships or in-work diplomas, yes. But for online learning or AEB-funded programmes, employment is not always necessary.
Conclusion
The Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care is your gateway to a meaningful career in the UK’s care sector. Thanks to multiple funding routes, especially government-backed initiatives, you can complete this qualification free of charge if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Whether you’re a career changer, an adult learner, or someone just starting in the care profession — this course offers essential skills, practical knowledge, and strong employability. Take advantage of fully funded or free Level 3 Health and Social Care Diplomas today, and start making a real difference in people’s lives.
Read More: BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care: Everything You Need to Know
