Dementia Training Standards Framework
The DTSF sets out nationally recognised knowledge and skills for anyone supporting people living with dementia. It’s organised into tiers so you can match training to roles:
Tier 1 – Dementia Awareness
For all staff, volunteers and community members who may encounter people living with dementia. Focus on awareness, language, reducing stigma and knowing where to signpost.
Tier 2 – Basic Skills for Regular Contact
For staff who have regular contact in health, social care or community roles. Focus on communication, person centred support, risk enablement, equality and diversity, and supporting carers.
Tier 3 – Leadership, Expertise & Advanced Practice
For registered professionals, specialists and leaders responsible for assessment, care planning and service improvement.
Dementia Friends
Dementia Friends is a national initiative that helps people understand dementia and take small, practical actions in their community or workplace.
Great for community groups, customer‑facing teams, reception/front‑of‑house, housing, leisure, libraries, transport and retail. Large organisations can arrange bespoke group sessions.
How to be a Dementia Friend:
Book a Dementia Friends Information Session (face to face or virtual) for teams, schools, faith groups and businesses.
Encourage colleagues to become Dementia Friends and display badges/lanyards to promote a welcoming environment.
Invite or develop Dementia Friends Ambassadors (trained volunteers who deliver sessions and advocate locally).
Online Dementia Courses
Find out more about dementia
These organisations have good sources of advice and information about dementia, and how to care for those with dementia.
e‑Learning for Healthcare (NHS)
Modular e‑learning designed for health, social care and voluntary sector staff.
Covers Tier 1–2 competencies, communication, person‑centred support, risk, legal/ethical aspects and carer support.
Suitable for induction, refreshers and CPD.
SCIE (Social Care Institute for Excellence)
Short, interactive courses aligned to Tier 1 (and options for deeper learning).
Certificates of completion for CPD folders.