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Level 2 Award in Understanding Substance Misuse. Click to download an at a glance summary

Qualification information
Qualification Number USM-L2 is accredited by the Office of the Qualifications & Examinations Regulator (Ofqual) into the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF). The qualification number for USM-L2 is 500/4684/6.
Qualification structure 1 mandatory unit:
A/501/9973 Understanding Substance Misuse
Target candidates

This unit/qualification is intended for candidates who wish to develop their knowledge of substance misuse in order to:

  • raise awareness of substance misuse and its consequences
  • improve the knowledge, awareness, understanding and effectiveness of those:
    - currently working in the field of substance misuse
    - supporting people involved in substance misuse
    - working to prevent substance misuse
Level 2
Guided learning hours 30 (minimum)
Credit value 6
Minimum age 16 years*
Entry requirements

No previous training or experience required

See section 5 of the Qualification Document
Progression

USM-L2 is a stand-alone qualification. However, progression is available to Level 2 or Level 3 National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) in Health & Social Care (H&SC), and/or level 2 counselling skills qualifications and/or level 3 substance misuse qualifications.

The unit credit can also be used towards other relevant qualifications on the QCF.
Assessment

Trainer-assessed candidate portfolio.

Independent verification by CPCAB.

Additional assessment requirements None
Grading system Pass
Personal counselling or therapy (for trainee) None required.
Work-place experience (for trainee) None required.
Staffing and other resources

Only one tutor-assessor is needed for the internal assessment of candidates.

See section 4 of the Qualification Document for details of required trainer-assessor qualifications and experience.

Internal Moderation and Verification Centres are required to have robust internal moderation and verification processes that are verified by CPCAB.
Candidate Registration Fee £46
Centre application for CPCAB approval to offer the qualification

Centre application fee: £99 (one-off fee).

Centres can design their own training programmes** - sample schemes of work are available from CPCAB on request.

*This age requirement is linked to Ofqual’s system for categorising qualifications.

**All centre designed courses must be submitted to CPCAB for approval before candidates can be registered. Although the delivery of courses may differ from centre to centre, all delivery must enable the candidates to achieve the learning outcomes specified in the unit.