Best online dementia care courses UK (2026 comparison)

What to compare in an online dementia care course

• Awareness course or qualification. A dementia awareness course is a short introduction. Lift's Level 2 certificate includes dementia awareness as the first of seven units and goes on to person-centred care, communication, diversity, medication, behaviour and activities. It is on the Ofqual register as 601/5360/X.
• The level. Of the providers we checked, two listed Level 2 dementia care certificates and two listed Level 3 dementia qualifications from a different awarding body. Compare like with like.
• What the fee includes. One provider listed a course only price, and another gives 12 months of access. At Lift College the tutor, marking, AI Study Support, TQUK registration and certificate are included, with no timetable.
• How it is assessed. Lift's certificate is assessed by written assignments and workbook questions for each unit, with no exams, no timed tests and no workplace observations.
• What it does not cover. The medication unit builds knowledge only. Giving medication at work needs your employer's own training and competency checks.

Dementia care course fees compared

Full course fees as each provider listed them on its own page when we checked on 29 October 2026. Where a provider sells a different qualification, the nearest match is shown. Prices change, so check each provider's own page and the qualification number before you enrol.

What the certificate covers

The seven units are Dementia awareness; The person-centred approach to the care and support of individuals with dementia; Understand the factors that can influence communication and interaction with individuals who have dementia; Understand equality, diversity and inclusion in dementia care; Understand the administration of medication to individuals with dementia using a person-centred approach; Understand behaviour in the context of dementia; and Understand the benefits of engaging in activities in social care.

Who should choose which

• You work in a care home, home care or a hospital, or are starting a care job: a regulated Level 2 dementia care certificate gives you a qualification to put on your CV.
• You care for a parent, partner or relative with dementia: you do not need to work in care to take the certificate, and many family carers find the units on communication, behaviour and the experience of dementia help them support their relative.
• You only need a short introduction: Lift College also runs a Dementia Awareness CPD course.
• You want a Level 3 dementia qualification: Lift's certificate is Level 2. Two of the providers we checked listed Level 3 options from a different awarding body.
• You want to try the course before you pay: Lift College has a 7-day free trial, monthly payments and no contract.

What you get with Lift College

• The TQUK Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Dementia Care (RQF), qualification number 601/5360/X on the Ofqual register: 7 units, 15 credits, 123 guided learning hours and 150 hours total qualification time.
• A named UK tutor who marks your work and gives written feedback, usually within 5 to 7 working days, plus AI Study Support while you study.
• A portfolio of written work, with no exams. If anything is not yet met, you get feedback and resubmit. TQUK quality assures the marking and issues your certificate.
• Your own pace. Many learners finish in 3 to 6 months, with no timetable and no fixed exam date. You need to be 16 or over, and there are no formal entry requirements.
• TQUK registration and certificate included, and Lift College is a TQUK recognised centre.
• 7-day free trial, then monthly or in full, with no contract and a 14-day money back guarantee. Employers can enrol staff through an organisation account and pay by card or invoice.

This is a knowledge qualification. It shows you understand the principles of dementia care and does not on its own qualify you for a role; each employer decides what a post needs.