NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Working with People with Mental Health Needs
Training At A Glance:
- Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate
- Estimated Time: 45 hours
- Format: Self-study
- Number of Units: 5
- Cost: £315 + VAT (can then be claimed back through the LDSS)
- Pathway: Standard
NHS mental health services in England received a record 5.2 million referrals during 2024, representing a 37.9% increase from 2019. (BMA, as of June 2025) As such, being able to upskill in mental health is becoming ever more important.
What is the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Working with People with Mental Health Needs?
The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate (Qualification Number: 601/3434/3) is a professional qualification for the adult social care sector. It defines the core responsibilities of a mental health worker, including duty of care, risk assessment, and legal legislation. This course is fully funded via the LDSS reimbursement scheme for eligible care providers in England.
Accredited Mental Health Training for Adult Social Care Workers
The Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Working with People with Mental Health Needs is designed for staff who want to reflect on how their role supports those with mental health needs, are planning on taking on additional responsibilities or even those new to a role.
This training covers the processes and approaches involved in providing mental health support as part of an adult social care role. Staff gain an understanding of sector standards, including the factors which inform legislation and guidance, alongside the requirements and resources which underpin best practice.
Course Units
| Unit Number | Topic Covered | Key Learning Outcome | Unit Code |
| Unit 1 | Understand The Role Of The Mental Health Worker | Exploring standards of good practice, role reflection, and maintaining personal wellbeing | D/506/2895 |
| Unit 2 | Mental Health And Mental Health Issues | Exploring different types of mental health problems and symptoms, and understanding relative legislation and guidance | D/504/1707 |
| Unit 3 | Understand Duty Of Care In Adult Health And Social Care | Understanding the balance of duty of care and individual’s rights, recognising and reporting unsafe practice | K/506/1300 |
| Unit 4 | Approaches To Care And Management In Mental Health | Understanding key features and principles of care planning processes, risk assessment, and agency involvement | K/601/2950 |
| Unit 5 | Understanding Change And Support In Relation To Mental Health | Understanding how mental health change occurs, available support and resources, and roles of other workers | K504/1709 |
Does this course cover Duty of Care?
Yes, in fact this is one of the key learning points, with this course providing a deep dive into the legal and ethical responsibilities around Duty of Care. Learners will explore:
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How to manage conflicts between an individual’s rights and the worker’s duty of care.
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Procedures for recognising and reporting unsafe practices.
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The impact of a care worker’s actions on service users and the wider care team.
What does the learning journey look like?
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Core Understanding: Role of the worker & Legislation.
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Practical Application: Approaches to care planning & management.
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Growth: Understanding change and support systems.
Is this course required for the Mental Health Ambassador badge?
Yes. This is the Core Requirement for the Ambassador pathway. It must be completed alongside one specialised certificate (Mental Health Awareness or Awareness of Mental Health Problems).
Does this qualification cover the Mental Capacity Act?
Yes. The course introduces the legal frameworks surrounding mental health, including the principles that underpin the Mental Capacity Act and how they apply to daily care.
Looking to take your mental health training further?
Combine this core course with the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health Awareness OR the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems to qualify as a Mental Health Ambassador.
