A new Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ), which has close partnership working at its heart, is knocking down traditional boundaries in health and social care services.
Developed in partnership
The SVQ in Integrated Health and Social Care at SCQF level 7 was first delivered in 2024. The qualification sees SQA collaborate with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC), NHS Education for Scotland (NES) and other key stakeholders including employers and training providers.
The groundbreaking, cross-sector nature of this new qualification has ensured learners who gain it meet the complex and multifaceted needs of both the health and social care sectors, ultimately improving outcomes for people using the nation’s services.
Jane Powell, Learning and Development Adviser at the SSSC says the qualification reflects the modern needs of integrated health and social care settings. “Traditional roles and boundaries across services have reformed into more collaborative and shared ways of delivering health and social care, with social care and health support workers now sharing similar features within their skill sets – this new SVQ addresses this,” said Jane.
“We worked really well together, built effective relationships, and integrated our diverse sector experiences, reflecting the integrated value of health and social care,” she added.
New career opportunities
The SVQ is designed for those working within these increasingly integrated health and social care services and settings.
Debbie Main, SQA Qualifications Officer, outlines what it has to offer: “It’s a chance to gain an internationally recognised qualification, while equipping yourself with a range of transferable knowledge and skills.
“These are based on National Occupational Standards, so you can be assured they are valued and sought after by employers. This puts you in a great position for career progression, or for continuing your studies.”
The SVQ – which you can use to meet SSSC registration requirements – covers areas including health, safety and security in the work setting, promoting effective communication, developing your practice through reflection and learning and promoting the safeguarding of individuals.
Learn more about our SVQ Integrated Health and Social Care SCQF level 7.
