Caring with Confidence: Introduction to Healthcare QQI Level 4

Delivered over 10 weeks, Caring with Confidence: Introduction to HealthCare QQI Level 4 provides a safe learning environment for family carers to re-engage with education and achieve a recognised QQI accreditation. Your lived experience and skillset as a family carer can be transferred to the learning in this course, providing family carers with a recognised qualification that can be used to access further education and development opportunities.

A collaboration between Family Carers Ireland and the Education Training Boards provides a pathway for family carers to access more employment and education opportunities when their caring role ends.

Entry Requirements

• Education: NFQ Level 4 or equivalent when accessing a Level 5 programme. CERFL proficiency at B2 for access to Level 5 courses for those whose first language is not English Mature learner entry requirements available via the local ETB pathway Additional requirements may apply to non-EU/EEA Applicants and may be subject to full international fees (Please refer to Information for International Learners) *Each provider may have additional requirements, not outlined above.
• Aptitude: Applicants must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
• Previous Experience: Applicants must be able to demonstrate a moderate range of knowledge, skills and competencies relevant to the course, be able to work with responsibility and demonstrate the ability to work on their own initiative.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the different type of care settings and the role of the carer
2. Explain how the principal carer's role interacts withthe other professionals who work in the care setting
3. Outline the range of safety measures that should be taken when caring for a client including what to do in the case of a medical emergency
4. Describe the purpose of the various equipment used to assist in the care setting
5. Outline the importance of exercise and a healthy and balanced diet across the human life cycle to include the link between exercise and a healthy mind and body
6. Explain the role of protein, fats and carbohydrates, mineral, vitamins and water in the body
7. Describe the importance of special diets for specific health related conditions
8. Explain the different forms communication takes including verbal and non-verbal communication
9. Describe a number of common impairments that cause communication difficulties
10. Demonstrate the principles of active listening
11. Outline the principles of dealing effectively with situations of conflict in the healthcare setting
12. Demonstrate the use of language that is appropriate and respectful of the cared for person and their family

Caring With Confidence: An Introductory Training Programme

If you are a family carer caring for a loved one with additional needs, you are invited to our tailor-made course “Caring with Confidence.” It is an 8-week introductory course into caring practices and supports, drawn from the collective needs and requests of family carers.

This course is delivered for two hours once a week.

Entry Requirements

Courses are strictly for family carers only, and Family Carers Ireland covers the course costs.

Learning Outcomes

You will learn:

• Practical Care Skills
• Rights and Entitlements
• Communication Skills
• Introduction to first aid in the home (non-certified)
• Safety and Security in the home
• Self-Care Practice

Optional extras include:

• Communication with Doctors
• Mental Health Awareness Workshop
• Last Aid – Planning Ahead

Upcoming Courses

Courses will be delivered in the following locations from September 2025. Times, dates and venues will be released in the coming weeks.

• Cork
• Galway
• Clare

If you would like to express your interest in attending this course, don't hesitate to get in touch with Deirdre at training@familycarers.ie or 086 7749838.