SH4013 - Introduction to Health & Social Care (2025/26)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2025/26 | |||||||||||||||
| Module title | Introduction to Health & Social Care | |||||||||||||||
| Module level | Certificate (04) | |||||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 30 | |||||||||||||||
| School | School of Social Sciences and Professions | |||||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 300 | |||||||||||||||
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| Running in 2025/26(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module offers a foundational understanding of the structure, regulations, policies, organisation, and delivery of health and social care systems and services. You will explore the roles and responsibilities of professionals within the system and examine how services are coordinated to meet the needs of diverse populations. You will be encouraged to analyse specific health and social care issues. By examining real-world scenarios, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the factors that contribute to health inequalities, including social determinants such as education, employment, and housing.
A key focus of the module is the practical application of health and social care policies. Using case studies, you will analyse how policies influence service provision, workforce planning, and population health outcomes. You will also explore the impact of social determinants of health, including education, employment, and housing, and how these contribute to health inequalities.
By the end of this module, you will be well-equipped with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and contribute effectively to the health and social care sector.
Syllabus
The module begins by exploring the concepts and definitions of health and illness, encouraging students to reflect on their own perceptions of health and the necessity for services (LO2, LO4). Following this foundational understanding, students will be introduced to the structure, regulation and function of health and social care in (LO1).
In the first term, students will also learn about health and social care provisions. This will include an examination of health inequalities, social inequalities, and the social determinants of health (LO2, LO4). The importance of community profiling in health and social care will also be covered (LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4). Throughout the year, students will develop practical skills in information retrieval and application to their selected populations (LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4).
Building on this knowledge, the second term will expand to include public health provisions. Students will explore public health, health promotion, health policy, and interventions. This will involve reflecting on how health inequalities and inequities are addressed through policy and interventions, both in their selected populations and in the broader context of health and social care (LO3, LO4).
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
The module offers a comprehensive approach to learning about health and social care, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. Weekly content delivery includes a variety of materials such as readings, videos, discussions, and quizzes. Seminars facilitate the application of theoretical concepts through group work, supported by tutors. To aid in learning and assessment preparation, students will receive relevant forms and templates to complete in groups or individually.
Reflective learning is a key component, with students encouraged to debate and engage with peers to deepen their understanding of health and health inequalities. Practical IT sessions are designed to equip students with the skills necessary for conducting research and applying data to their tasks.
Blended learning is emphasized through a mix of scheduled sessions and independent study. Students are encouraged to explore a wide range of resources to enhance their understanding of current events in health and social care, including the impact of government policies and initiatives.
Additionally, students will undertake assessments that require them to explore their local area, reflecting on how classroom learning applies to their own lives and communities. This approach not only reinforces theoretical knowledge but also fosters personal and professional development (PDP) through continuous reflection and practical application.
Learning outcomes
- To understand the structure, regulation and function of the health and social care systems in the UK.
- To identify and analyse health and social care issues in specific populations.
- To understand how health and social care policies and provisions apply in real life.
- To examine social determinants of health and their impact on inequalities in health.
Bibliography
The below Tallis link will be updated with resources suggested by external panel member listed below:
The Marmot Review: 10 Years On https://www.health.org.uk/publications/reports/the-marmot-review-10-years-on
The King’s Fund https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/
The Department of Health and Social care: Office for Health Improvement & Disparities https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/office-for-health-improvement-and-disparities
The Department of Health and Social care Fingertips https://fingertips.phe.org.uk/
Darzi’s report on state of NHS: Independent Investigation of the National Health Service in England
Books:
Bonner, A. (Ed.). (2020). Local Authorities and the Social Determinants of Health (1st ed.). Bristol University Press. https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctv177tgp0