The ProQual Level 5 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills is a prestigious senior-level qualification designed for experienced practitioners operating at management, leadership, or specialist advanced practice levels within the sector. This comprehensive programme develops high-level strategic understanding, enabling learners to lead service delivery improvement, manage complex safeguarding frameworks, and implement person-centred governance systems. The curriculum covers sophisticated topics such as strategic leadership in care services, advanced mental capacity and liberty protection, inter-agency collaboration, and organisational approaches to risk management and quality assurance.
This qualification places strong emphasis on developing strategic vision, systems thinking, and ethical leadership at an executive level. Participants will engage with topics such as leading organisational change, developing evidence-based practice cultures, managing multi-disciplinary teams, and evaluating service effectiveness against regulatory frameworks. The content is designed to build confidence in navigating complex political, ethical, and operational challenges facing contemporary health and social care provision. Assessment is conducted through portfolio building, allowing candidates to demonstrate their strategic capabilities through detailed service improvement projects, critical incident analyses, policy evaluation reports, and reflective leadership accounts that capture their impact at an organisational level.
The ProQual Level 5 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills is specifically designed for registered managers, advanced practitioners, and service leaders ready to operate at the highest level of strategic and operational responsibility. Upon achievement, learners may choose to pursue further specialised executive certifications in areas such as strategic commissioning, clinical governance leadership, or advanced safeguarding practice, as well as prestigious diplomas focusing on organisational development and executive leadership
Program Highlights
To achieve theProQual Level 5 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills: Candidates must achieve a minimum of 37 credits:
• 22 credits from the Mandatory Units, plus
• A minimum of 15 credits from the Optional Units
Mandatory Units
| Sr# | Units Titles | Credit Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Facilitate change in health and social care or children and young peoples’ settings | 6 |
| 2 | Develop and evaluate operational plans for own area of responsibility | 6 |
| 3 | Lead the management of transitions | 4 |
| 4 | Understand professional management and leadership in health and social care or children and young peoples’ settings | 6 |
Optional Units
| Sr# | Units Titles | Credit Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manage physical resources | 3 |
| 2 | Work in partnership in health and social care | 4 |
| 3 | Promote professional development | 4 |
| 4 | Recruitment and selection within health and social care or children and young peoples’ settings | 3 |
| 5 | Understand how to manage a team | 3 |
| 6 | Manage induction processes for health and social care or children and young peoples’ settings | 3 |
| 7 | Manage finance in health and social care or children and young peoples’ settings | 4 |
| 8 | The structure, organisation and function of the human body | 12 |
| 9 | Communication skills for health and social care management | 15 |
| 10 | Empowering users of health and social care services | 15 |
| 11 | Equality and diversity in health and social care | 10 |
| 12 | Evaluate and develop own contribution to the service | 3 |
| 13 | Facilitate learning in groups | 3 |
| 14 | Health and safety in the health and social care workplace | 15 |
| 15 | Health and social care in context | 15 |
| 16 | Influences on health and social care organisations | 15 |
| 17 | Prepare clients through advice and guidance for the implementation of a course of action | 3 |
| 18 | Provide support for other practitioners | 5 |
| 19 | Reflective Practice | 1 |
| 20 | Understand partnership working | 1 |
| 21 | Understanding professional supervision practice | 3 |
| 22 | Undertake research for the service and its clients | 5 |
| 23 | Use person-centred practices to deliver personalisation in health and social care | 4 |
| 24 | Personal and professional development in health and social care | 15 |
| 25 | Communicating in health and social care organisations | 15 |
| 26 | Physiological Principles for health and social care | 15 |
| 27 | The sociological context of health and social care | 15 |
| 28 | Use and develop systems that promote communication | 3 |
| 29 | Champion equality, diversity and inclusion | 4 |
| 30 | Lead and manage infection prevention and control within the work setting | 6 |
| 31 | Develop health and safety and risk management policies, procedures and practices in health and social care | 5 |
| 32 | Manage quality in health and social care or children and young peoples settings | 5 |
| 33 | Undertake a research project within services for health and social care or children and young people | 10 |
| 34 | Conduct and support others in the assessment of individuals health and well-being | 8 |
| 35 | Promote effective nutrition and fluid balance | 12 |
| 36 | Understand the principles and application of physiological measurements | 12 |
| 37 | Understand the principles, theories and concepts related to leading and developing a work team in a healthcare environment | 8 |
| 38 | Develop professional supervision practice in health and social care settings | 5 |
| 39 | Understand child and young persons development | 6 |
| 40 | Lifespan developments and healthcare needs | 10 |
| 41 | The principles and philosophy of healthcare | 12 |
| 42 | Appraise Staff Performance | 5 |
| 43 | Assess the individual in a health and social care setting | 6 |
| 44 | Principles of health and social care practice | 15 |
| 45 | Share knowledge and good practice | 3 |
| 46 | Understanding Dementia Care | 20 |
| 47 | Understanding specific needs in health and social care | 15 |
| 48 | Understanding Deaf culture | 4 |
| 49 | Support individuals with sensory loss with communication | 5 |
| 50 | Support individuals with multiple conditions and/or disabilities | 5 |
| 51 | Promote good practice in the support of individuals with autistic spectrum conditions | 7 |
| 52 | Promote access to healthcare for individuals with learning disability | 6 |
| 53 | Safeguarding and protection of vulnerable adults | 5 |
| 54 | Safeguarding and protection of children and younpeople | 5 |
Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for this prestigious senior-level qualification are designed to ensure that learners possess the substantial experience, advanced knowledge, and strategic maturity required to lead services, manage complex systems, and influence organisational practice within health and social care environments.
- Age Requirements: Learners must be at least 21 years of age. This minimum age reflects the significant level of professional maturity, strategic judgement, and leadership credibility required to operate effectively at management and advanced practice level within regulated care services.
- Educational Background: Learners should ideally hold a relevant Level 3 or Level 4 qualification in health and social care or a related field. This may include the ProQual Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills, Level 4 Certificate in Leadership and Management, or equivalent advanced qualifications. Related diplomas in subjects such as nursing associate programmes, public health, social work foundation degrees, or Level 4 Diplomas in Adult Care also provide a strong foundation. GCSEs at grade C/4 or above in English and mathematics are highly beneficial.
- Language Proficiency: Learners must possess an excellent command of written and spoken English. The qualification requires production of sophisticated strategic reports, service improvement proposals, policy evaluation documents, and complex reflective accounts. A minimum equivalent to GCSE grade C/4 in English is essential, with Level 2 functional skills or IELTS 6.0 accepted as alternatives.
These entry criteria ensure that every learner embarking upon this distinguished diploma possesses the executive presence, strategic experience, and advanced qualifications required to succeed at Level 5. Whether you are progressing from a Level 3 or Level 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care, bringing related qualifications from nursing, social work, or allied health professions, or seeking formal recognition of your established career as a registered manager or service leader, this programme demands exceptional commitment, proven leadership capability, and a genuine passion for shaping the future of care services. It is designed exclusively for those who are ready to step into the highest levels of strategic responsibility and make a lasting impact upon the quality and delivery of health and social care provision.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the ProQual Level 5 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills, learners will achieve the following learning outcomes:
- Advanced Knowledge: Gain an in-depth understanding of advanced healthcare and social care support concepts, theories, and practices. Develop a comprehensive knowledge base in areas such as strategic leadership, evidence-based practice, policy development, and advanced communication techniques.
- Strategic Thinking: Develop advanced strategic thinking skills to analyze complex healthcare and social care challenges, evaluate potential solutions, and make informed decisions. Acquire the ability to formulate and implement strategic plans that align with organizational goals and drive positive change.
- Leadership and Management Skills: Enhance leadership and management competencies to effectively lead teams, inspire colleagues, and manage resources in healthcare and social care settings. Acquire the skills necessary to navigate organizational dynamics, foster a culture of excellence, and achieve operational and strategic objectives.
- Ethical Considerations: Explore ethical dilemmas and considerations within the healthcare and social care sectors. Develop the ability to make ethically sound decisions, promote inclusivity, and uphold professional integrity in the delivery of care and support services.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Develop skills in utilizing research and evidence to inform decision-making and improve healthcare and social care practices. Learn how to critically evaluate research studies, apply evidence-based interventions, and contribute to the advancement of best practices in the field.
- Policy Development and Implementation: Understand the importance of policy development and its impact on healthcare and social care services. Learn to analyze policy frameworks, contribute to policy development processes, and effectively implement policies that enhance the quality and accessibility of care.
- Advanced Communication: Enhance communication skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders, including clients, colleagues, and external partners. Develop advanced skills in negotiation, conflict resolution, and persuasive communication to facilitate positive outcomes in complex healthcare and social care environments.
- Professional Development: Foster personal and professional growth through reflective practice and continuous learning. Develop self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience to navigate challenges and adapt to the evolving needs of the healthcare and social care sectors.
- Applied Practical Skills: Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios through practical training and work placements. Develop advanced practical skills in areas such as risk management, quality improvement, service development, and interprofessional collaboration.
- Critical Analysis and Problem-Solving: Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to address complex issues in healthcare and social care. Develop the skills to analyze data, evaluate options, and generate innovative solutions to improve service delivery and patient outcomes.
These learning outcomes are designed to equip learners with the advanced knowledge, skills, and competencies required for senior-level positions in healthcare and social care. Graduates of this diploma program will be well-prepared to lead with confidence, influence positive change, and drive excellence in the delivery of care and support services.
Target Audiences
The ProQual Level 5 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills is designed exclusively for senior practitioners, registered managers, and strategic leaders who hold significant responsibility for the direction, quality, and governance of health and social care services. This prestigious qualification is intended for individuals who are already operating at management or advanced practice level and now wish to formalise their expertise, develop executive leadership capability, and gain recognition for their strategic contribution to the sector. It is suitable for those who shape policy, lead teams, manage resources, and drive continuous improvement within complex and regulated care environments.
- Registered Managers and Service Managers – Individuals holding regulatory responsibility for the overall operation, compliance, and quality of care services within residential homes, nursing homes, domiciliary care agencies, supported living services, or day centres.
- Deputy Managers and Assistant Service Managers – Those working directly alongside registered managers who are preparing for full managerial responsibility and require advanced strategic leadership development.
- Advanced Practitioners and Clinical Leads – Experienced senior care practitioners specialising in complex areas such as dementia care, palliative care, mental health, or learning disability services who operate at an expert practice level and influence organisational approaches.
- Care Coordinators with Strategic Responsibility – Individuals managing complex care packages, leading multi-disciplinary teams, and contributing to service development beyond operational coordination.
- Holders of Level 3, Level 4, or Level 5 Diplomas in Health and Social Care – Learners who have successfully completed the ProQual Level 3 Diploma, Level 4 Certificate in Leadership and Management, or equivalent qualifications and are now ready to progress to executive-level strategic study.
- Qualified Professionals from Allied Fields – Individuals holding diplomas or certifications in nursing, social work, occupational therapy, or public health who have transitioned into management roles within health and social care settings and require a qualification that recognises their strategic leadership capabilities.
- Regulatory and Quality Assurance Professionals – Those working within commissioning bodies, inspection teams, or quality assurance roles who require deep understanding of service governance and strategic compliance frameworks.
- Entrepreneurs and Service Owners – Individuals establishing or operating their own care provision businesses who require advanced knowledge of strategic leadership, regulatory compliance, and service development to ensure sustainable, high-quality delivery.
This qualification is for the registered manager who carries overall accountability, the advanced practitioner who shapes clinical practice, and the service leader who drives organisational culture. It is for those who understand that leadership at this level is not merely about managing tasks but about inspiring excellence, navigating complexity, and championing the rights and dignity of every individual receiving care. Whether you are progressing from a Level 3 or Level 4 Diploma, bringing professional qualifications from nursing or social work, or seeking formal recognition for years of successful service management, this diploma is designed for those who are ready to lead with vision, integrity, and strategic purpose. It is the qualification of choice for the care leader who no longer simply delivers services but actively shapes the future of health and social care provision itself.
