Advance Your Career with Professional Diploma in Assessing Risk in Adult Care
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Assessing Risk in Adult Care offers a professionally structured learning experience for those working in or aspiring to work within the adult care sector. Designed in accordance with UK occupational training standards, this diploma focuses on building the knowledge and practical competencies required to assess, manage, and mitigate risk while delivering person-centred care.
Risk assessment is a critical component in adult social care, where the balance between supporting autonomy and ensuring safety must be carefully maintained. This diploma provides participants with a solid foundation in recognising potential risks in various care settings and understanding how to respond appropriately, ethically, and in line with relevant legislation and safeguarding policies.
Throughout the course, participants explore key themes such as risk identification, legal frameworks, collaborative risk management, and communication strategies. The programme also delves into the psychological, environmental, and health-related factors that influence risk in adult care. Participants are guided through realistic case scenarios and practical exercises, enabling them to apply theoretical concepts directly to their professional practice.
The course structure supports a progressive learning journey, beginning with core definitions and legal responsibilities, and advancing towards the development of comprehensive risk assessment plans. Participants learn how to evaluate individual needs, prioritise risks, and implement responsive measures that uphold dignity, independence, and safety. The diploma also emphasises multidisciplinary collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and effective record keeping.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Assessing Risk in Adult Care
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Understanding Risk in Adult Care: Key Concepts and Definitions (3 Hours)
- Define risk within the context of adult care and support services
- Explain why proactive risk assessment is essential for safe, high-quality care
- Identify different types and sources of risk in adult care environments
- Understand how risks may vary based on individual needs and settings
- Recognise the role of professional judgement in evaluating and prioritising risk
Legal and Regulatory Frameworks in Risk Assessment (4 Hours)
- Interpret key legislation, regulations, and policies relevant to adult care risk
- Understand duty of care, consent, and mental capacity in decision-making
- Recognise the legal responsibilities of care providers and professionals
- Apply regulatory standards to everyday risk assessment practice
- Ensure compliance while supporting safe and ethical care delivery
Identifying Physical, Emotional, and Environmental Risks (4 Hours)
- Recognise common physical risks such as falls, pressure ulcers, and medication errors
- Identify emotional and psychological risks affecting wellbeing and behaviour
- Assess environmental hazards in residential, community, and home care settings
- Use observation and information-gathering to detect early warning signs
- Understand how multiple risk factors can interact and escalate harm
Risk Assessment Tools and Techniques in Practice (4 Hours)
- Use standardised tools to assess, record, and document risk accurately
- Apply structured frameworks to evaluate likelihood and severity of harm
- Develop individual risk profiles based on personal needs and circumstances
- Integrate observational findings into formal assessments
- Incorporate service user views and preferences into risk evaluations
Balancing Risk with Rights, Choice, and Independence (6 Hours)
- Understand person-centred care principles in relation to risk-taking
- Explore ways to promote independence while managing potential harm
- Assess risk in the context of informed choice and mental capacity
- Support positive risk-taking that enhances quality of life
- Apply ethical reasoning to complex and sensitive risk decisions
Safeguarding Adults: Recognising and Responding to Abuse and Neglect (3 Hours)
- Identify different types and indicators of abuse and neglect
- Understand safeguarding responsibilities and reporting procedures
- Respond appropriately to concerns while maintaining confidentiality
- Recognise the importance of early intervention and prevention
- Promote a strong safeguarding culture within care environments
Working Collaboratively: Multidisciplinary Approaches to Risk Management (3 Hours)
- Understand the roles of professionals involved in managing risk
- Communicate effectively with colleagues, families, and support networks
- Share information responsibly to support safe decision-making
- Facilitate collaborative care planning and reviews
- Promote shared accountability for risk management across teams
Developing and Reviewing Individual Risk Management Plans (3 Hours)
- Create clear, practical risk management plans tailored to individuals
- Identify control measures to reduce or manage identified risks
- Review and update plans in response to changes or incidents
- Involve individuals and carers in planning and review processes
- Maintain accurate, detailed, and compliant risk documentation
Course Benefits – OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Assessing Risk in Adult Care
- Gain a clear understanding of how to identify and manage a wide range of risks in adult care settings
- Strengthen knowledge of legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks guiding risk assessment and decision-making
- Enhance ability to balance safety with the rights, dignity, and independence of individuals receiving care
- Develop practical skills in using risk assessment tools and creating person-centred risk management plans
- Improve safeguarding awareness and responsiveness to signs of abuse or neglect
- Build confidence in applying professional judgement in complex or high-pressure care situations
- Learn to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams to ensure collaborative and coordinated care
- Improve documentation, communication, and reflective practice in line with professional standards
- Increase employability and credibility within the health and social care sector through a recognised qualification
- Support continuous improvement in care delivery by promoting safer, more responsive, and ethical practices
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Assessing Risk in Adult Care is designed for individuals involved in or preparing for roles within the adult health and social care sector. This course is particularly suited to:
- Care professionals responsible for assessing and managing risks in residential, domiciliary, or supported living settings
- Team leaders and supervisors seeking to strengthen their risk management capabilities
- Adult safeguarding coordinators and officers aiming to enhance their practice in identifying and responding to risk
- Healthcare assistants, support workers, and care coordinators wishing to expand their professional knowledge
- Individuals transitioning into adult care roles who require a structured introduction to risk assessment
- Professionals working in multidisciplinary teams who contribute to care planning and decision-making
- Anyone committed to delivering safe, person-centred care that respects individual rights and promotes well-being
This diploma supports the development of essential skills and confidence to carry out professional, ethical, and effective risk assessments in a variety of adult care environments.
