This qualification was developed in collaboration with Homeless Link.
The content was developed with input from a range of experts in the homelessness sector, so that it reflects current working practices, and reviewed by people who have lived experience of homelessness, to ensure that it reflects the things that are important to them when accessing services.
The qualification aims to provide you with the knowledge and skills required to support people who are rough sleeping through outreach work, by:
- Developing the skills and knowledge required to work in a person-centred and trauma-informed way in a rough sleeping outreach service
- Enabling learners to develop the skills and knowledge to support and achieve successful outcomes for people who are rough sleeping.
It includes understanding the causes and consequences of rough sleeping, relevant legislation and how to keep people safe. As well as operational responsibilities, risk management and building effective supporting relationships with people who are rough sleeping, there is also an opportunity to explore professional practice skills.
The qualification is regulated by: Ofqual, Qualifications Wales.
What will you learn?
The qualification has four mandatory units containing 16 credits which you must achieve to be awarded the qualification.
Qualification specification document
Who is the qualification for?
The qualification is suitable for learners who are:
- Aspiring to an operational role in rough sleeping outreach services
- Working in an operational role in outreach or homelessness services and want to develop their knowledge and understanding.
CIH do not set entry requirements for this qualification, study centres may set their own to ensure that learners are able to achieve the qualification. It may be beneficial to have one or some of the following:
- Experience of working in rough sleeping outreach, homelessness services, housing, support or care work, or another related sector
- Have completed a qualification at level 2
- Have completed a homelessness, housing or support work related qualification.
The approximate Total Qualification Time (TQT) is 160 hours. The approximate average Guided Learning Hours (GLH) are 100. This may vary between learners and centres.
Qualification fees can vary depending on where, how and with which centre you choose to study. Please contact your CIH approved study centre directly for further information on fees.
The qualification is assessed by study centres, they can use various methods such as tasks, portfolios, assignments, and professional discussions.
The qualification aims to support entry and progression within roles such as:
- Rough sleeper outreach worker
- Rough sleeper navigator
- Rough sleeper prevention worker
- Engagement worker
- Assertive outreach worker
- Outreach support worker.
You may wish to progress onto further learning such as:
As a learner you may be eligible to gain access to CIH membership at a concessionary rate.
On completion of the qualification you may wish to become a CIH certified practitioner (CertCIH). You can see more information on this here.
We are committed to protecting your privacy and security. This policy explains how and why we use your personal data, to ensure you remain informed and in control of your information.
How to enrol on this qualification
This qualification is delivered by our approved study centres. To get started, you’ll need to choose a centre from the list below and apply or enquire with them directly.
Each centre sets their own delivery method, schedule, and fees, and will support you throughout your journey, working to the specification and learning outcomes for the course.
Find a study centre:
Questions about studying?
If you’re unsure which qualification is right for you, or where and how to study, our team is here to help. Contact us or leave your details, and we’ll guide you through your options.
Contact us
