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The Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS) will continue into the financial year 2025 to 2026, ensuring that eligible adult social care employers in England can still claim staff training costs. While there have been changes to the funding process, this programme remains a crucial opportunity for employers to invest in workforce development and maintain high-quality care standards.
Understanding LDSS Funding
LDSS funding is available to support the training and development of non-regulated care staff, including deputy managers, Care Quality Commission (CQC)-registered managers, and agency staff within the adult social care workforce. Employers can claim funding for training courses and qualifications on behalf of their staff, provided the courses have been paid for and started between 1st April 2025 and 31st March 2026.
- £835 for the Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care.
- £1,565 for the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Adult Care.
- Up to £1,540 for the new Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate
For further details, employers can refer to the Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme – GOV.UK.
Key Changes to LDSS Funding
- Initial Reimbursement: Employers can claim 60% of the training cost within three months from the qualification start date or by 31st March 2026.
- Final Reimbursement: The remaining 40% can be claimed upon course completion by 31st December 2026.
- Updated Eligibility Criteria: Employers must ensure their Adult Social Care Workforce Data Set (ASC-WDS) account is fully updated to be eligible for funding claims.
How Employers Can Access LDSS Funding
1. Register with the Adult Social Care Workforce Data Set (ASC-WDS)
- Employers must first create or update their ASC-WDS account to qualify.
- Registration is quick and takes about 5-10 minutes. Sign up here
2. Register Interest in LDSS Funding
- Employers who have an ASC-WDS account can register their interest in accessing LDSS funding.
- Thea NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) manages the funding service and will onboard employers in stages.
- Employers can express their interest here: LDSS Registration Form .
3. Submit a Claim for Training Costs
- Employers can claim reimbursement for training courses that align with LDSS funding eligibility.
- The funding claim process includes submitting evidence of course payment and completion.
Why Updating ASC-WDS is Crucial
To qualify for LDSS funding, employers must ensure their ASC-WDS account is fully up to
date. The following records must be maintained:
Workplace Record Updates:
- Establishment type.
- Services provided.
- Number of staff, including agency workers.
- Number of starters and leavers within the past 12 months.
- Actual vacancies at the time of submission
Staff Record Updates (90% Completion Required):
- Gender, date of birth, nationality.
- Job roles and employment status.
- Training completion status (e.g., Care Certificate, qualifications held).
- Pay details, contract type, and working hours
Benefits of LDSS Funding for Employers and Care Staff
- Financial Relief: Reduces employer training costs while ensuring staff meet regulatory standards.
- Career Progression: Enables care workers to advance their careers with industry- recognised qualifications.
- Workforce Retention: Providing funded training enhances job satisfaction and staff retention rates.
- Improved Care Quality: A well-trained workforce leads to better care delivery and regulatory compliance.
How Access Skills Can Help
At Access Skills, we assist care employers in navigating the LDSS funding process, ensuring
they secure financial support for staff training. We provide:
- Guidance on selecting eligible courses.
- Support with ASC-WDS registration and funding applications.
- CQC compliant and accredited training sessions.
Get Started Today
If you’re an employer in the care sector, don’t miss out on LDSS funding! Ensure your ASC-
WDS account is updated and register your interest today.
