Your Guide to Subject Choices for QQI Level 6 Health Services Supervisory Management Skills (Social Care) 6M4978
Focusing on Social Care Leadership and Person in Charge (PIC) Roles
The QQI Level 6 Major Award in Health Services Supervisory Management Skills is specifically designed to equip learners with the knowledge and leadership capabilities needed for supervisory and managerial positions across the health and social care sectors. This qualification is particularly suitable for individuals aiming to step into or progress within Social and Community Care, especially in regulated residential services where the role of the Person in Charge (PIC) is essential.
To achieve the full award, learners must complete 120 credits from the following components. These can be strategically selected to align with HIQA’s qualification expectations for PIC roles in adult residential services for persons with intellectual disabilities.
✅ Mandatory Modules (30 Credits)
These foundational modules are essential for developing core leadership and conflict resolution skills required in supervisory roles:
- Conflict Management (6N2775) – 15 credits
- Supervisory Management (6N4329) – 15 credits
📘 Elective Modules – Group 1 (Choose One, 15 Credits)
Choose the module that strengthens your capacity to lead teams and communicate effectively within regulated social care environments:
- Communications (6N1950)
- Leadership (6N2191) – Highly recommended for PIC aspirants
👩🏫 Work Experience Module – Group 2 (15 Credits)
Select a placement within a HIQA-registered residential service to directly apply your learning and meet practice requirements:
- Work Experience (6N1946) – 15 credits
🧩 Specialist Electives (Choose Three or More, 45+ Credits)
Tailor your electives to meet the needs of regulated care services and demonstrate competence in person-centred, regulatory-compliant care delivery:
- Person Centred Planning (6N2206) – Critical for meeting HIQA standards
- Gerontology (6N3748) – Relevant for elder care services
- Human Resource Management (6N3750) – Essential for managing staff in residential settings
- Health Promotion (6N2214)
- Finance (6N4165) – Important for PICs managing budgets
- Project Management (6N4090)
🎯 Optional Modules (Remaining 15 Credits)
Use this final credit allocation to reinforce your suitability for supporting diverse resident needs and safe care provision:
- Mental Health Awareness (6N2209) – Suitable for disability or dual-diagnosis services
- Safety Management (6N1782) – Supports regulatory compliance
- Special Needs Assisting (6N1957) – Broadens your understanding of support needs
Why This Course Matters for Social Care PIC and Supervisory Roles
This QQI Level 6 Major Award provides a strong foundation for those aspiring to take on leadership or supervisory roles within social care, including the role of Person in Charge (PIC) in residential settings. While HIQA considers both qualifications and experience, this award demonstrates key competencies in management, planning, and care delivery. It is also well-suited to those seeking progression into team leadership, community-based care coordination, and supervisory roles within both residential and outreach services.
Whether you are currently working in social care or looking to re-enter the workforce, this flexible, modular programme allows you to build a qualification that enhances your professional profile and aligns with sectoral expectations.
Next Steps
If your goal is to become a PIC or leader in a residential or community-based social care setting:
- Choose your modules strategically (see recommended options above)
- Secure a work placement in a HIQA-registered or community care setting
- Combine this award with relevant experience to strengthen your leadership profile
Forus Training supports learners throughout their journey with expert trainers and flexible online delivery.
Build your future in Social Care Leadership with a programme designed to open doors.
