Everything you need to know about CHAPs Training
CHAPs Training was created by our CEO, Paul Blane, drawing on his experience as a Care Home Owner.
He kept seeing the same two needs side by side: experienced Care Assistants ready to progress, and Care Homes needing stronger Clinical support.
Today, CHAPs is trusted by Organisations right across the country to strengthen continuity of Care.
This blog brings together the most common questions about CHAPs Training, so you can quickly understand the course, the format, and what the role looks like in practice.
What is CHAPs Training and what does it stand for?
Well CHAPs Training stands for Care Home Assistant Practitioner. You may also see it written as CHAPS Training when searching online.
It is a Development Programme for experienced Care Assistants. The CHAPs role is often described as bridging the gap between Care Assistants and Nurses by supporting a wider range of Health-related tasks and day-to-day Clinical support in a Care Home.
Who is CHAPs Training for?
A CHAPs-trained Staff member is often the perfect “step up” for people who are ready for a more advanced role, without leaving hands-on Care behind. It’s ideal for:
- Experienced Care Assistants who want a clear next step in their career.
- Senior Carers and Team Leaders ready to take on greater responsibility and lead with confidence.
- Care Staff who want to support more of the Clinical side of Care, working alongside registered colleagues and strengthening day-to-day support on shift.
How long is the CHAPs course?
This CHAPs course is delivered across 7 sessions.
It’s a Blended Programme that involves:
- One in-person session (included in the course price)
- One virtual exam
- Remaining sessions delivered online
This blended format is popular with Care Teams because it combines practical learning with flexibility around shifts.
Where is the in-person session held?
The in-person session location is:
Greaves Hall Ave, Banks, Southport PR9 8BL
Can CHAPs Training be delivered at our Care Home?
Yes. If you would prefer the Training to be delivered at your location, we can arrange for one of our trainers to come to you for an additional fee.
Just get in touch with our sales team and we’ll talk you through the options.
Contact us
What will I learn on the course?
The course covers:
- Clinical observations
- Tissue Viability, Dressings, Wounds, and Pressure Relief
- Venepuncture and Blood Sugar Monitoring
- Administration of Medication and Syringe Driver
- Catheter and Stoma Care
- Dysphagia
- Diabetes Management
Does CHAPs Training replace a Nurse?
No. An Assistant Practitioner does not replace a Registered Nurse.
The CHAP role is designed to support Nursing Care, not substitute it.
CHAPs are not registered, and they typically work under the direction of a registered colleague. The benefit is building stronger support on shift and improving continuity of Care.
With 25,504 registered Nursing Vacancies recorded in NHS England in 2025 alone, CHAPs can strengthen shift support and continuity, without diluting accountability or professional boundaries.
This becomes even more important during nurse shortages, offering extra support while keeping roles and responsibilities clearly defined.
Can a CHAP work independently after Training?
A Care Home Assistant Practitioner can carry out tasks more independently day-to-day, but they are still described as working under the direction of a registered colleague. In practice, what this looks like depends on how a Care Home structures support and supervision, and the policies in place.
Is CHAPs training suitable for residential homes or only nursing homes?
CHAPs Training can be useful in both settings, but it tends to be especially relevant where residents have Complex Needs and the home wants stronger Clinical support. The role and how tasks are organised will vary depending on whether the Service is Residential, Nursing, or mixed.
Is there an exam in CHAPs Training?
Yes. This course includes one virtual exam as part of the Programme.
What’s the difference between CHAPs Training and Nurse Associate Training?
CHAPs Training is a Care-Home-focused development pathway for experienced Care Staff. Nurse Associate programmes are a separate route into a regulated role and are structured differently. If your goal is a regulated registration route, Nurse Associate Training is usually the pathway to explore. If your goal is to build advanced support roles within the Care Home workforce, CHAPs Training is often the better fit.
Is the in-person session included in the price?
Yes. The in-person session is included within the £630 per person course price.
How do I book CHAPs Training?
To book, select your preferred location and date from the drop-down list on the course page. Click here.
Then simply fill out the booking form. If you need a different date, choose register interest to request a future option.
Alternatively, contact a member of our team for support.