NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems

Training At A Glance:

Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate
Estimated Time: 80 hours
Format: Self-study
Number of Units: 13
Cost: £315 + VAT (can then be claimed back through the LDSS)
Pathway: Specialised

In 2023, mental health services in England received a record 5 million referrals, a 33% increase since 2019 (Health Foundation, Jan 2025) meaning that specially trained staff are in ever increasing demand.

What is the NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems?

The NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems (Qualification Number: 601/3438/0) is a nationally recognised qualification designed for adult social care staff. It provides a comprehensive understanding of various mental health conditions, including stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and is 100% reimbursable through the Government’s LDSS funding.

Download Course Details PDF

Gain a Deeper Understanding of Mental Health Problems

The Level 2 Certificate in in Awareness of Mental Health Problems is designed for staff who want to reflect on how their role supports those with mental health problems, are planning on taking on additional responsibilities or even those new to a role.

This training develops staff’s understanding of what is meant by mental health and mental ill-health within the adult social care sector, including the legal frameworks which ensure provision of high-quality care. Each unit goes into depth on a specific mental health problem which their colleagues or clients may experience. Using a person-centred approach, staff explore the causes, symptoms, and management options of these conditions whilst considering the wider impact on the lives of both the affected individual and those closest to them.

Course Units

Unit Number	Topic Covered	Key Learning Outcome	Unit Code
Unit 1	Understanding Mental Health	Understand what is meant by mental health, ill-health, its impact, and the legal frameworks surrounding care provision	Y/506/2880
Unit 2	Understanding Stress	Understand the causes, effects and management of stress	H/506/2882
Unit 3	Understanding Anxiety	Understand the causes, effects and management of anxiety	M/506/2884
Unit 4	Understanding Phobias	Understand the causes, effects and management of phobias	A/506/2886
Unit 5	Understanding Depression	Understand the causes, effects and management of depression	L/506/3105
Unit 6	Understanding Post Natal Depression	Understand the causes, effects and management of post natal depression	L/506/2889
Unit 7	Understanding Bipolar Disorder	Understand the causes, effects and management of bipolar disorder	F/506/2890
Unit 8	Understanding Schizophrenia	Understand the causes, effects and management of schizophrenia	L/506/2892
Unit 9	Understanding Dementia	Understand the causes, effects and management of dementia	Y/506/2928
Unit 10	Understanding Eating Disorders	Understand the causes, effects and management of eating disorders	D/506/2928
Unit 11	Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder – ADHD	Understand the causes, effects and management of ADHD	F/506/2937
Unit 12	Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder – OCD	Understand the causes, effects and management of OCD	D/506/2900
Unit 13	Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder – PTSD	Understand the causes, effects and management of PTSD	T/506/2904

How does this course help with CQC inspections?

Completing this Level 2 certificate provides documented evidence of staff Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It demonstrates that your team is equipped with the specialised knowledge required to provide high-quality, person-centred care for residents with mental health needs—a key area of focus for CQC Well-Led and Effective ratings.

How long does it take to complete the Awareness of Mental Health Problems course?

We estimate it takes approximately 2 months (around 80 guided learning hours) for a learner to complete the videos and workbook tasks.

Are there any exams for this Level 2 certificate?

No. Assessment is based on the completion of a portfolio which is marked by our expert tutors. There are no formal examinations.

Can this course be used for the Mental Health Ambassador pathway?

Yes. This is a core component of the Mental Health Ambassador route. Combining this with a specialised course allows your staff to earn their Ambassador badge.

Eligibility and Funding Quick Facts

Who qualifies? Non-regulated adult social care staff in England.
Is it funded? Yes, 100% reimbursement is available via the LDSS for eligible employers.
Maximum Reimbursement: Under the 2024/25 scheme, this specific NCFE qualification (601/3438/0) is eligible for up to £305-£315 per learner.
Accreditation: Fully accredited by NCFE CACHE and approved by NHS England.

Book Your Training

Looking to take your mental health training further?

Combine this specialised course with the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Working with People with Mental Health Needs to qualify as a Mental Health Ambassador.