A New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing is a great way for support workers to get a qualification focused on self-directed support while continuing to support you in your home.
It is a great time to consider a NZQA Certificate in Health and Wellbeing as from now until December 2022 all employees are able to get the Careerforce enrolment fee waived. Here's the lowdown on what level might be right for you, or your support worker:
Level 2 is an introductory course for people new to support work. It aims to develop the entry-level skills and knowledge required to provide person-centred support safely
Level 3 is aimed at developing the skills and knowledge required to support and empower people in home and community settings. It is for people who are employed as support workers and who want to further develop their skills and knowledge. You don't need Level 2 to enrol on this course.
Level 4 is an advanced course designed for senior support workers wanting to take on more leadership roles. This programme aims to develop the skills and knowledge required to work collaboratively in supporting a person with complex needs using person-centered approaches. You do need Level 3 or another relevant qualification to enrol.
With all courses, you and your support worker can choose the unit standards that are the most relevant to your support needs. The average total costs for Level 2 is $1000, based on assessor fees of $85 per unit standard. The average total costs for Level 3 is $1700, based on assessor fees of $85 per unit standard. The average total costs for Level 4 is $2000 based on assessor fees of $125 per unit standard. All costs may vary by unit standards completed.
Training grants are available from Te Pou, an organisation which manages grant funding for the disability workforce. Manawanui can help you access up to $400 for Level 2, $600 for Level 3, and $700 for Level 4. Individualised Funding (EIF, EGL, IF) can be used to cover the rest of the costs.
With support worker minimum hourly rates directly linked to NZ Certificates in Health and Wellbeing qualification, now could be a great time to find out what you are eligible for. The qualification hourly rates are $21.50 for no qualifications, $23 for a Level 2 qualification, $25 for a Level 3 qualification and $27 for a Level 4 qualification. Note that self-employed contractors are not subject to minimum wage rates.
Completing an NZQA Health and Wellbeing Certificate is also a great way to boost the confidence and skills of your staff while they support you. If you have any questions or want to learn more about NZQA Health and Wellbeing certificates please email Rebecca our Learning and Development Support Coordinator: learning@manawanui.org.nz