How to fund and boost your in-house assessment capability to align with CQC audits

The Level 3 Award in Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment (UPPA Award) is a recognised qualification designed for individuals who assess vocational skills, knowledge, and understanding. It is aimed at professionals working in the social care sector, including trainers, assessors, supervisors and managers responsible for evaluating the competence of care staff. This includes both the Care Certificate Induction and the new Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate qualification and is the perfect CPD opportunity for your staff and will provide evidence towards your CQC ‘Well-led’ assessment.

This short qualification provides the foundational knowledge required for those looking to ensure they can carry out fair and effective assessments. It allows care organisations to demonstrate their commitment to the Skills for Care Adult Social Care Workforce Development Strategy and is eligible for funding through the Learning and Development Support Services (LDSS), making it more accessible to organisations looking to invest in their workforce.

Building a skilled and supported social care workforce

The social care sector relies on a competent and well-supported workforce to deliver high-quality, person-centred care. Skills for Care’s workforce development strategy aims to ensure staff are equipped with the right skills, knowledge, and qualifications to meet regulatory standards and provide outstanding care services. A key part of this strategy is the Level 3 Award in Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment (UPPA Award), which plays a vital role in strengthening assessment practices and professional development across the sector.

Raising standards through effective assessments

Assessment is at the heart of the sectors workforce development. The UPPA Award equips assessors with the skills to conduct fair, reliable, and valid assessments. This ensures staff competency is accurately measured, leading to improved professional standards and better care outcomes. With well-trained managers and supervisors in place, social care organisations can build a workforce that meets both regulatory expectations and service user needs.

Supporting compliance and workforce development

Regulatory compliance is a key focus for social care employers. From the Care Certificate to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), organisations must ensure staff meet training and qualification requirements. The UPPA Award enables assessors to evaluate staff effectively, helping organisations remain compliant while fostering a culture of learning and improvement.

Driving career progression and retention

Providing structured career pathways is essential for staff motivation and retention. The UPPA Award is the first step towards becoming a fully qualified assessor, allowing experienced professionals to support others in achieving recognised qualifications. By investing in assessor training, employers create opportunities for career progression, which boosts job satisfaction and reduces staff turnover. A stable and motivated workforce leads to greater consistency in care delivery.

Enhancing person-centred care

High-quality assessments ensure care staff have the necessary skills to provide individualised, compassionate support. The UPPA Award plays a crucial role in embedding person-centred approaches within assessment practices. By focusing on the abilities and development needs of staff, organisations can improve care standards and enhance the dignity and well-being of service users.

Strengthening organisational growth and sustainability

Improving the skills and confidence of in-house managers offers a cost-effective solution to workforce development. Rather than relying on external providers, organisations can develop their own teams, ensuring training aligns with their specific needs. This contributes to greater flexibility, sustainability, and resilience within the sector.

Meeting CQC expectations and enhancing reputation

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) sets strict standards for workforce competency and training. Having qualified managers conducting high-quality assessments ensures organisations can demonstrate compliance with these requirements, leading to higher CQC ratings and an improved reputation. Employers who invest in assessment training show a commitment to quality, which benefits both staff and service users.

Creating a culture of continuous improvement

A strong workforce development strategy relies on ongoing learning and professional growth. The UPPA Award encourages reflective practice and continuous improvement, helping care professionals adapt to changing standards and best practices. This aligns with the broader vision of Skills for Care, fostering excellence across the social care sector.

UPPA, UPPA and away

The UPPA Award is more than just a qualification—it’s an investment in the future of social care.

By having staff achieve the award, organisations can enhance workforce competency, improve compliance, and elevate care standards.

If you’re looking to strengthen your team and build a culture of learning, consider integrating the UPPA Award into your workforce development plan.

Get started today – contact us to find out how to fund and deliver the UPPA Award to empower your organisation and improve care standards.