Mandatory training aims to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of services and reduce organisational risks by complying with local or national policies, guidelines and regulations.

Generally, it covers training required by law or where a statutory body has instructed an organisation to provide training based on specific legislation, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

The core mandatory training subjects for health and social care are:

• Basic life support
• Fire safety awareness
• Health, safety and welfare
• Infection prevention and control
• Information governance/data security awareness
• Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards
• Safeguarding adults at risk and safeguarding children.

While you may believe that you are solely responsible for your safety, you are also responsible for the safety of others on a job site. It is crucial to remember that while you are responsible for your actions, you are also responsible for how your actions impact others.

Completing mandatory health and social care training will familiarise you with the health and safety regulations that ensure a safe working environment. Having adequate knowledge and skills necessary to perform your job safely minimises the risk of harming yourself or others.

Whether you are employed by a care organisation or serve the general public in some capacity, you are responsible for caring for those who interact with your organisation. Proper hygiene is imperative, whether it is for child protection, moving large crowds safely, or just ensuring employees and customers are protected from infectious diseases and illnesses.

Regardless of the situation, mandatory health and social care training will ensure that internal and external stakeholders receive safe and effective care.

Regulations and laws in the United Kingdom require that employees meet professional standards following local policies and procedures. An organisation that provides mandatory health and social care training supports its employees in meeting these standards.

For example, nurses must maintain their clinical practice to practise in the UK and revalidate their certification. As part of the revalidation process, nurses can maintain their registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) while demonstrating their continued ability to practise safely and effectively. To maintain their professional status, nurses must engage in revalidation continuously.

Mandatory health and social care training improves staff confidence and reflects well on the organisation.

In promoting mandatory health and social care training, your organisation demonstrates its dedication to fostering a positive workplace safety culture. Health and social care providers that provide mandatory training to their employees also show that they value them and want them to feel respected, well-supported, and comfortable speaking out in uncomfortable situations.

In addition to mandatory training, courses on creating and maintaining positive work relationships, promoting equality and diversity, and exploring alternative working methods can also help develop a positive workplace culture.