Key knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) statements
The Framework aims to support users to develop core knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) to demonstrate competence across the 4 Pillars of Practice.
The knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) are outlined as statements to help you reflect on your current job role and identify areas for further development to enhance your effectiveness.
You may also wish to incorporate additional KSBs from other profession-specific or role-specific frameworks relevant to your position. A blank template is provided for you to add these.
Please note that some KSB statements may have similarities and overlaps across the pillars. Keep this in mind when developing your evidence, as it may address several KSBs across different pillars.
The knowledge, skills and behaviours expected for all Level 2 HCSWs are detailed below.
| Clinical Practice | |
| 2C1 | Ability to develop knowledge and skills required to deliver safe, person-centred care effectively, recognise change in a person’s condition and report observations to a healthcare practitioner and/or assistant practitioner. |
| 2C2 | Ability to develop knowledge of routine investigations, procedures, technical or administrative activities. |
| 2C3 | Ability to develop knowledge of standard operating procedures and protocols. |
| 2C4 | Ability to adhere to the HCSW Code of Conduct in relation to consent: 3.2.8 – Telling patients and members of the public what you intend to do and listening carefully to what they say about it. |
| 2C5 | Ability to recognise risk in relation to care provision. |
| 2C6 | Ability to understand it is everyone’s responsibility (HCSW Code of Conduct 3.2.11) to protect individuals, members of the public and report any concerns to a supervisor, manager or make use of the whistleblowing policy to reduce risks in the future. |
| 2C7 | To have an awareness of and comply with core legislation and policies. |
| 2C8 | To have awareness of and comply with legislation, and policies specific to area of practice. |
| 2C9 | Ability to understand and apply the concepts of accountability and responsibility and be confident to accept or decline delegated responsibility from a healthcare practitioner, senior HCSW or assistant practitioner. |
| 2C10 | Recognise the effects and potential symptoms of trauma or vicarious trauma and respond appropriately. Practising at a minimum of Trauma Informed practice level. |
| 2C11 | Ability to escalate concerns if unable to carry out their duty and responsibilities outlined within health and care staffing legislation. Practising at Informed level. |
| 2C12 | Practice in ways which recognise and respond to health inequalities, respect diversity, and protect against discrimination and harassment. |
| 2C13 | Use a range of skills to communicate with people about difficult matters or situations. |
| Facilitating Learning | |
| 2F1 | Ability to learn from experience through observation, supervision, feedback, reflective practice techniques and evaluation. |
| 2F2 | Ability to acquire an understanding of the HCSW role in relation to learning and development for others. |
| 2F3 | Ability to engage in [clinical] supervision, using reflective practice and feedback to enhance the quality of care and outcomes through: Personal development and wellbeing: fostering self-awareness and effective self-management. Continual professional development: committed to ongoing learning and development, with a focus on professional codes and maintaining quality standards. Knowledge, Skills, and Proficiency Development: actively seeking to expand clinical knowledge and skills to ensure high standards of practice and effective care. |
| 2F4 | Engages with appraisal and creates a plan for personal development. |
| Leadership | |
| 2L1 | Ability to develop organisational and time management skills in relation to prioritising workload. |
| 2L2 | Ability to recognise role boundaries and limitations. |
| 2L3 | Ability to participate in team and multidisciplinary team development. |
| 2L4 | Ability to recognise opportunities to problem-solve. |
| 2L5 | Ability to develop an awareness of the impact of leadership activities in relation to compassion, civility, kindness and human factors. |
| Service Improvement | |
| 2S1 | Ability to develop knowledge and skills in using information technology systems to access resources e.g., policies, relevant publications. |
| 2S2 | Ability to reflect on and discuss own practice and identify potential areas for improvement in own role / service delivery. |
| 2S3 | Ability to appreciate risk in relation to care provision and service improvement. |
| 2S4 | Ability to recognise quality improvement methodologies and how they are used in practice. |