Applications are now open for the independent social care sector to apply for training support funding in 2025/26.
The Northern Ireland Social Care Council (the Social Care Council) is administering the Training Support Programme for the financial year 2025/26 on behalf of the Office of Social Services (OSS), Department of Health (NI).
For this financial year, applications for funding of health and social care qualifications and training initiatives can be made by employers of Social Care Council registered social care practitioners and managers in the independent sector, working across adult and children’s services.
The application process is being managed online and can be accessed here.
Only online applications will be accepted.
Closing date for applications is 17 October 2025.
Additional information
Whilst this funding programme is open to social care organisations from across the independent sector, priority will be given to applications from community and voluntary sector organisations.
It is important to note that the Level 2 Certificate in Safe and Effective Practice, which is the entrance level qualification available for social care practitioners, will be prioritised for funding.
Find out more about this qualification
Additionally, applications can be made to fund face-to-face training and/or learning and development initiatives in the following prioritised themes:
- Dementia awareness.
- Palliative care awareness.
- Emergency First Aid.
- Moving and positioning.
- Trauma-informed practice.
Only face-to-face events will be funded.
Got a question? If you have a question or wish to receive details of the application process, including the terms and conditions, email TrainingSupport@niscc.hscni.net.