Qualifications

SDF’s SVQ Centre offers SQA quality assured vocational qualifications to the drug, alcohol, and wider social care workforce.

SVQ Centre

Scottish Drugs Forum’s SVQ Centre provides high-quality, SQA-accredited vocational qualifications for the drug, alcohol, and wider social care workforce.

Delivered primarily online and accessible nationally, our programmes are designed to be flexible and accessible – offering tailored, one-to-one support from experienced Assessors and a strong focus on building professional confidence and demonstrating competence.

We are currently approved by SQA to deliver qualifications in:

Social Services & Healthcare

at SCQF Level 6 and Level 7 – ideal for SSSC registration

Advice & Guidance

at SCQF Level 6 and 8

Community Development

at SCQF Level 6 and 8

SQA Approved

Since its launch in 2021, the SVQ Centre has consistently been awarded ‘high confidence’ by SQA across all external quality assurance criteria, with several aspects of our delivery recognised as examples of good practice – a reflection of our commitment to quality, and Candidate-centred support.

SVQ Programme

We also offer an Enhanced Skills SVQ Programme add-on to the Social Services and Healthcare Awards, combining vocational learning with training in trauma, communication, stigma, and professional boundaries – a unique offer that deepens learning and strengthens practice within social care.

Our main intakes run twice a year, however, we’re sometimes able to accommodate individual candidates or small groups between scheduled intakes, depending on capacity and award type.

These qualifications are fee-based, with costs varying by award. SAAS Part-Time Fee Grant funding is available to eligible Candidates for Social Services and Healthcare (Level 7) and Community Development (Level 8), helping to reduce the cost of study. To learn more about your eligibility for funding, view the part-time funding guide on the SAAS website.

  • Blown Away

    I started my SVQ level 2 in Social Services and Healthcare journey with SDF, and I am blown away with the support and knowledge I have received. My assessor went above and beyond to support me. Having just completed the level 2 award and secured a new job; I am starting my level 3 in with SDF now. I would not want to carry this journey with anyone else. The SVQ Centre team are so committed to developing my understanding and they give me the best opportunities for my learning and development.
  • ESSENTIAL TO MY WORK

    Achieving an SVQ Level 3 in Social Services and Healthcare wasn’t just a requirement for my role – it was to give me more confidence in it. Working with Scottish Drugs Forum’s SVQ Centre gave me a greater insight to the SSSC Codes of Practice and Health and Social Care Standards – both essential to my work day-to-day.
  • GREAT Support

    I really enjoyed building new relationships with other SVQ Candidates and the teaching was excellent. The information was delivered in a way I could understand, and the trainer took time to explain things I didn’t quite get while also making the sessions fun and engaging. My Assessor gave me such great support and took time to give me all the guidance I needed – she has the patience of a Saint!

Find out More

To learn more: view our prospectus, read about the SVQ Centre, or contact us 

Prospectus

SVQ Centre

Contact us

Start your SVQ Journey

Learn more about SDF’s SVQ Centre.