The implementation of national vocational qualifications (NVQs) in health and social care is a major initiative in the achievement of quality training for unqualified carers. Managers responsible for human resource development in the health service and in local authorities will be considering ways of developing training and assessment systems that meet the requirements of the joint awarding body

The lead industry body for health care workers, Care Sector Consortium, has defined competencies for NVQs in Health and Social Care, which were launched in September 1990. Centres that wish to offer this qualification must seek approval by the joint awarding body, a consortium of City and Guilds and Central Council for the Education and Training of Social Workers, which has specific responsibility for promoting the assessment of NVQs in health and social care. Colleges of nursing and midwifery are suitable institutions to offer these awards.