Statutory vs. Mandatory Training: What are the Differences? - ComplyPlus LMS™ - The Mandatory Training Group UK -

Here at The Mandatory Training Group, we receive many enquiries from people across the UK asking about mandatory and statutory training. Many find these two terms quite confusing and often ask:

“Is there really a difference between statutory and mandatory training?”

Abstract

Understanding the distinction between statutory and mandatory training is vital for organisations to ensure compliance, safety, and workforce competency. Statutory training is required by law to meet regulatory obligations, safeguarding employees and the public. In contrast, mandatory training is organisation-specific, tailored to enhance skills and maintain standards aligned with internal policies. In this article, Dr Richard Dune explores the core differences, key examples, and their significance in fostering a safe, efficient, and legally compliant workplace. By clarifying these terms, employers and employees can better navigate training requirements, improving overall performance and accountability. Unlock the essentials to stay ahead in compliance and professional development.

Aims

• To enhance readers' understanding of the differences between statutory and mandatory training.
• To promote awareness of the importance of compliance with training requirements in professional settings.
• To empower organisations and individuals to identify and implement appropriate training programs effectively.

Objectives

• Provide clear definitions of statutory and mandatory training.
• Highlight the legal and organisational significance of each type of training.
• Offer practical examples to illustrate the distinctions between the two training categories.
• Discuss the implications of non-compliance and the benefits of adhering to training requirements.
• Present actionable insights for organisations to align their training strategies with legal and organisational needs.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this blog, readers should be able to:

• Differentiate between statutory and mandatory training in terms of purpose, scope, and legal obligations.
• Recognise the key examples and contexts where each type of training is applied.
• Understand the impact of compliance on organisational safety, efficiency, and legal accountability.
• Identify appropriate training programs to meet statutory and mandatory requirements.
• Implement strategies to ensure both legal compliance and organisational development through effective training policies.

What is the difference between statutory and mandatory training?

Admittedly, the words ‘mandatory’ and ‘statutory’ have similarities but also significant differences, especially regarding compliance training, such as health and safety at work training.

We looked at various dictionaries to see how they define ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’. We also reviewed several compliance-related websites and found that ‘mandatory’ and ‘statutory’ are used interchangeably as if they mean the same thing. What was clear was that statutory training is mandatory, while mandatory training is not necessarily statutory.

Before we further explain these similarities and differences, let’s start by looking at the dictionary definitions of ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’.

How are ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’ defined in the dictionaries?

The Collins Dictionary defines the words ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’ as follows:

‘Statutory relates to rules or laws which have been formally written down’

‘Mandatory relates to actions or procedures that people have to do because it is a rule or a law’

The Oxford Dictionary defines ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’ as follows:

‘Statutory - required, permitted, or enacted by statute’

‘Mandatory - required by law or mandate; compulsory’

After reviewing these definitions, we felt that they did not clearly distinguish between ‘statutory’ and ‘mandatory’. Hence, the confusion regarding statutory and mandatory training.

What is statutory and mandatory training?

This section will provide more concise definitions of ‘statutory training’ and ‘mandatory training’. We will also give statutory and mandatory training examples, which will help us distinguish between these types.

What is statutory training?

Statutory training is where a statutory body has mandated that organisations provide that training based on specific legislation. The most common sources of statutory training are the Health and Safety at Work Act etc. 1974, and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 is an Act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom that, as of 2011, defines the fundamental structure and authority for the encouragement, regulation and enforcement of workplace health, safety and welfare within the United Kingdom. 

Adherence to the Act is essential for employers and employees to maintain a safe and healthy working environment.

What are the examples of statutory training?

The most common statutory training courses are:

• Awareness of the local health and safety policy
• Awareness of the Control Of Substances Hazardous To Health (COSHH)
• When and how to report injuries, diseases and dangerous occurrences (RIDDOR)
• Fire safety awareness training
• Manual handling training
• Basic risk assessment training.

Please note that statutory training requirements will differ between different sectors.

What is mandatory training?

Mandatory training is compulsory training that an organisation determines as essential for its safe and efficient delivery of services.

Mandatory training helps to reduce organisational risks and comply with legislation, regulations and guidance. Mandatory training also helps employees to complete their jobs safely and efficiently.

What are examples of mandatory training?

Common examples of mandatory training include:

• Child protection
• Complaints handling
• Conflict resolution
• Managing violence and aggression
• Display and screen equipment
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Infection prevention and control
• First aid.

It is essential to note that mandatory training courses will differ between organisations, even within the same sector. Mandatory training requirements depend on local risk assessments.

Is there a difference between mandatory and statutory training?

Yes, there is a difference between mandatory and statutory training.

‘Statutory training is required to ensure that the organisation meets its legislative duties. Mandatory training is an organisational requirement to limit risk and maintain safe working practices’

As we have seen, many describe both statutory and mandatory training as ‘essential’ or ‘compulsory’ training as a ‘catch all’ phrase to cover both mandatory and statutory training.

Regardless of which term is used, statutory and mandatory training ensures that all staff members have the knowledge to maintain a healthy and safe working environment for themselves and their colleagues.

Why is statutory and mandatory training important?

Understanding the importance of mandatory and statutory training

Mandatory and statutory training is essential in ensuring your employees are well informed about their job requirements and your expectations. Let's delve into why these training forms are pivotal for your company:

• Enhancing employee skills - Regular training updates employees on the latest tools, technologies, and methods relevant to their roles. By focusing on mandatory and statutory training, you empower your team to refine and expand their skill set. Well-trained employees are more capable of delivering exceptional service and care, reducing the likelihood of errors that could impact safety and quality.
• Promoting workplace safety - These training programs are vital for teaching staff how to maintain safety in the workplace, protecting themselves and others, including customers, clients, or patients. Neglecting mandatory or statutory training requirements can expose your business, employees, and clients to significant risks.
• Minimising legal risks - Inadequate training increases the risk of workplace injuries or accidents, potentially leading to legal complications. These incidents can result in costly lawsuits that consume time and resources, threatening your business's profitability and reputation.
• Cultivating a positive culture - Investing in mandatory and statutory training signifies your commitment to continuous improvement and legal compliance. It boosts employees' skillsets and confidence, fostering a culture of professionalism and growth. This investment demonstrates that you value quality and safety, inspiring your team to adhere to the same high standards.

Prioritising mandatory and statutory training safeguards your business and employees and enhances the overall culture, leading to a more efficient, safe, and positive workplace.

Navigating the maze - Mandatory, statutory, essential, and compulsory training

The terms "mandatory", "statutory", "essential", and "compulsory" are often used in the realm of employee training, sometimes interchangeably, leading to confusion. Let's clarify these terms to enhance understanding and implementation.

In conclusion, understanding the distinct and sometimes overlapping aspects of mandatory, statutory, essential, and compulsory training can significantly streamline your organisation's training strategy and ensure both compliance and excellence.

Conclusion - The differences between mandatory and statutory training

We have now established the differences between statutory and mandatory training. Understandably, many people struggle to distinguish between these two types of training. The compulsory nature of statutory and mandatory training adds to the confusion, hence, the interchangeable usage of these terms.

Statutory training is required by law, and mandatory training is determined by the organisation based on local risk assessments and training needs analysis.

Whether we categorise training as statutory or mandatory, all staff members must complete appropriate training to comply with the law and ensure that they remain safe in the workplace and minimise risks for everyone. Statutory and mandatory training is everyone’s responsibility.

Where can I find statutory and mandatory training courses?

The Mandatory Training Group is one of the largest providers of accredited statutory and mandatory training for all sectors in the UK. Click here to browse our statutory and mandatory training bundles completed on our interactive online training portal.

Alternatively, you can contact our helpful Support Team by clicking here to tell us about your organisation's statutory and mandatory training requirements.

Discover the right training for your team with ComplyPlus LMS™

Navigating the nuances between mandatory and statutory training can be challenging. These terms often seem similar and are sometimes used interchangeably with words like "essential" and "compulsory." However, understanding the distinct roles each plays in compliance and professional development is crucial.

Recognising the difference between mandatory (employer-determined) and statutory (legally required) training empowers you to select the most appropriate courses and adhere to the relevant training guidelines. This knowledge is key to maintaining legal compliance and upholding industry standards.

Are you ready to streamline your team's training with targeted, effective courses? ComplyPlus LMS™ specialises in delivering both statutory and mandatory eLearning content tailored to your needs. Connect with us today to explore how our learning and development solutions can enhance your training strategy and ensure you remain at the forefront of compliance and excellence.

Importance of understanding the differences between mandatory and statutory training

Understanding regulation is a necessary and important element of running a company. It is your duty to ensure that all relevant staff understand and adhere to relevant legislation.

Many of the rules cut across all industries, while others are industry-specific. For example, health and social care companies must ensure that their employees are qualified to perform their respective roles. Their practice should be up to date, and they must have gone through the statutory and mandatory training courses that might include manual handling and infection control. Anyone working in the food industry will have to complete training on food hygiene and safety.

Unfortunately, some business professionals are often confused about what constitutes statutory and mandatory training. But these training courses are necessary for them to function well in their jobs. These courses aim to equip them with essential knowledge and skills, and awareness of the latest legislative updates and regulatory frameworks in their respective fields. Above all, the training will help define each of their professional roles and responsibilities.

In this article, we’ll give an overview of the main areas of statutory and mandatory training courses and all the other topics related to these training courses.

The distinction between mandatory and statutory training - A guide to compliance and excellence

As a business owner or manager, ensuring your team is well-trained and compliant with the latest industry standards and legal requirements is one of your most crucial responsibilities. Above, Dr Richard Dune from ComplyPlus LMS™ elucidates the distinction between two key types of training: Mandatory and Statutory, guiding you towards a more informed, efficient, and legally compliant training approach.

Understanding the need for mandatory and statutory training

Training isn't merely about skill enhancement; it's a comprehensive approach towards improving workplace safety and legal compliance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Here are some ways these training types impact your business:

1. Skill enhancement - They keep employees updated with the latest methodologies and tools, sharpening existing skills and fostering new ones.
2. Promoting safety - By understanding their roles clearly, employees can prevent accidents and create a safer environment for everyone.
3. Legal compliance - Adequate training mitigates legal risks and ensures your business stays on the right side of the law.
4. Cultural improvement - A commitment to regular training demonstrates your dedication to quality and improvement, fostering a positive workplace culture.

Navigating the complexities of training requirements

It's not uncommon for certain training elements to overlap between mandatory and statutory categories. For instance, Infection Prevention and Control might be a statutory requirement for healthcare workers but also a mandatory aspect for a specific organisation aiming for excellence in health and safety. The key is understanding the requirements specific to your industry and your organisation and implementing a tailored training strategy.

Harnessing ComplyPlus LMS™ for effective training management

To simplify the complex landscape of employee training, ComplyPlus LMS™ offers a robust solution. Our platform enables you to efficiently deploy, manage, and monitor mandatory and statutory training. By leveraging our comprehensive suite of courses and intuitive management tools, you can ensure that your team is compliant and excels in their roles.

Equip your team with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a demanding and ever-evolving workplace. With ComplyPlus LMS™, embrace a streamlined, effective approach to mandatory and statutory training. Contact our team today to explore how our solutions can transform your training strategy and propel your business towards compliance and excellence.

Summary - Recap on the distinctions between statutory and mandatory training

If you’re still finding it difficult to discern which type of training is which, remember that in simple terms, statutory training is compulsory because of laws, mandatory training is compulsory because of the job role, but both types are technically mandatory, and as a result, in some instances, you’ll hear mandatory refer to all types of training that a person has to undertake, for whatever reason. You can see more examples of the different training types in this article about the health and social care sector specifically.

Key points to remember about mandatory and statutory training

Statutory training and mandatory training in health and social care have some similarities, but there are differences in their definitions and implications:

1. Statutory training:
• Statutory training refers to the training that is required by law or specific legislation. It is mandated by government regulations and legislation.
• Statutory training typically covers fundamental aspects of safety, compliance, and legal requirements. It ensures that employees have the necessary knowledge and skills to operate within the legal framework.
• Failure to provide or complete statutory training can lead to legal consequences for both individuals and organisations.
2. Mandatory training:
• Mandatory training encompasses a broader range of training requirements that an organisation deems necessary for its employees to perform their jobs safely and effectively.
• While some mandatory training may be based on statutory requirements, it can also include additional training that the organisation considers essential for its specific operations.
• Mandatory training may cover topics such as infection control, fire safety, manual handling, and specific job-related skills.

In summary, statutory training is the subset of mandatory training that is specifically required by law or legislation, while mandatory training encompasses all training deemed necessary by an organisation. Both types of training are crucial in ensuring compliance, safety, and the delivery of high-quality care in health and social care settings in the UK.

Here are the key points to remember about the distinctions between mandatory and statutory training:

1. Definitions of statutory and mandatory training:
• Statutory training is legally required and mandated by specific legislation.
• Mandatory training is essential for an organisation's safe and efficient operation and is determined by the organisation itself.
2. Examples of statutory training:
• Statutory training is often required by specific legislation, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
• Examples include awareness of health and safety policies, COSHH, RIDDOR reporting, fire safety, manual handling, and basic risk assessment.
3. Examples of mandatory training:
• Mandatory training is determined by the organisation and focuses on minimising risks and complying with regulations.
• Examples include child protection, complaints handling, conflict resolution, infection prevention, and first aid.
4. Difference between statutory and mandatory training:
• Statutory training is legally required by specific laws, while mandatory training is organisationally required for job roles.
• Both types aim to ensure a safe working environment and compliance with laws.
5. Importance of statutory and mandatory training:
• Statutory and mandatory training is essential for professionals to comply with laws, regulations, and guidelines, ensuring workplace safety.
6. Training sources:
• The Mandatory Training Group provides accredited statutory and mandatory training for various sectors in the UK.
7. Distinction between statutory and mandatory training:
• Statutory training is required by law, while mandatory training is determined by the organisation based on risk assessments and needs analysis.
8. Statutory training examples:
• Statutory training includes courses like manual handling, fire safety, and risk assessment, mandated by specific legislation.
9. Mandatory training examples:
• Mandatory training covers topics such as food hygiene, safeguarding, and role-specific skills essential for job effectiveness.
10. Clarifying terminology:
• In some instances, "mandatory training" may be used as a catch-all phrase covering both statutory and mandatory training.
11. Summary:
• Statutory training is compulsory due to laws, while mandatory training is essential for job roles. Both are forms of mandatory training, ensuring compliance and safety.
12. Training in healthcare and social care:
• Training is crucial in healthcare and social care to maintain a healthy and safe environment and protect staff, patients, and the public.
13. Statutory and mandatory training in practice:
• The Care Quality Commission mandates statutory training, while mandatory training focuses on essential skills for specific roles.
14. Different training types:
• While statutory training is legally required, mandatory training can be essential for job roles and specific tasks.
15. Safeguarding and manual handling:
• Safeguarding and manual handling are examples of mandatory training tailored to specific healthcare and social care roles.
16. Clarification on terminology:
• "Mandatory training" may refer to all types of training required for various reasons, whether legally mandated or organisationally necessary.

These key points summarise the distinctions between statutory and mandatory training, their importance, and how they apply in healthcare and social care settings.

Additional articles about mandatory and statutory training

Click on the links below to read more about the differences between statutory and mandatory training:

• What is the guidance on statutory and mandatory training?
• What is statutory and mandatory training for care homes?
• What is mandatory training in health and social care?
• Employee statutory and mandatory training requirements
• What is the role of the Care Quality Commission?
• What is the CQC single assessment framework?
• Are you ready for the CQC single assessment framework?
• Mandatory training requirements for general practice
• Importance of mandatory training in health and social care
• Guide to developing health and social care staff
• Who pays or statutory and mandatory training?
• Why is staff training important in health and social care?
• What are the five key questions asked by the Care Quality Commission?
• Workforce development in the UK's health and social care sector
• What is workforce development and why is it important?
• How to improve statutory and mandatory training in the UK
• ComplyPlus™ for health and social care providers
• Importance of health, safety and welfare training in health and social care
• Role of L&D professionals in changing learning culture
• What are the benefits of ComplyPlus CQC compliance software?
• CQC compliance mastery: Key strategies for England's health providers
• Embracing change: The future of CQC's single assessment framework in 2024.

Frequently asked questions about the differences between mandatory and statutory training

• Guidance on statutory and mandatory training provides recommendations and requirements for healthcare professionals to ensure compliance with laws and organisational standards.

• Statutory and mandatory training for domiciliary care workers includes essential courses mandated by law and those deemed necessary by the organisation to provide safe and effective care at clients' homes.

• Statutory and mandatory training for care homes involves legally required training and additional essential training determined by the care home to maintain compliance and safety.

• Statutory training in health and social care refers to training required by law, such as courses related to health and safety legislation.

• Mandatory health and social care training encompasses essential training determined by the organisation to ensure compliance, safety, and effective job performance.

• Employee statutory and mandatory training requirements involve completing both legally mandated and organisationally necessary training to maintain compliance and safety.

• The Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulates and inspects health and social care organisations to ensure they meet quality and safety standards, including mandatory training requirements.

• The CQC single assessment framework is a comprehensive assessment process used by the Care Quality Commission to evaluate the quality of care provided by healthcare organisations.

• Being ready for the CQC single assessment framework involves ensuring that healthcare organisations have met all mandatory training requirements and other quality standards.

• Mandatory training requirements for general practice include essential courses necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of healthcare professionals in this setting.

• Mandatory training is essential to maintain compliance with laws and regulations and to provide safe and high-quality care in health and social care settings.

• Guidance for developing health and social care staff includes training and professional development recommendations, which may encompass both statutory and mandatory training.

• The responsibility for funding statutory and mandatory training may vary, with some costs borne by the organisation, individuals, or a combination of both.

• The definitions of statutory and mandatory training distinguish between legally required training and organisationally determined essential training.

• Staff training is crucial in health and social care to ensure that professionals are competent, compliant, and capable of providing safe and effective care.

• Refresher statutory and mandatory training is important to keep healthcare professionals updated on the latest regulations and best practices, maintaining their competence.

• The five key questions asked by the CQC assess the safety, effectiveness, caring, responsiveness, and leadership of healthcare organisations, including their approach to training.

• Workforce development in the UK health and social care sector involves training, education, and professional growth to enhance the skills and knowledge of healthcare professionals.

• Health and social care workforce development focuses on training and education to improve the capabilities of professionals, including compliance with statutory and mandatory training.

• Improving statutory and mandatory training in the UK involves adopting modern training methods, staying updated with regulations, and ensuring accessibility for all professionals.

• ComplyPlus may be suitable for health and social care providers seeking a comprehensive solution for managing their statutory and mandatory training requirements.

• Health safety and welfare training is crucial in health and social care to protect the well-being of staff, clients, and patients and ensure a safe working environment.

• Learning and development professionals play a key role in shaping a culture of continuous learning, including the implementation of statutory and mandatory training.

• ComplyPlus CQC compliance software can help organisations streamline and manage their compliance, including statutory and mandatory training, improving efficiency and effectiveness.

• Key strategies for CQC compliance include thorough training and documentation of statutory and mandatory training to meet quality and safety standards.

• Strategies to address the crisis in England's adult social care sector may involve improving training, funding, and workforce development to ensure quality care.

• Addressing challenges in England's health and social care sectors may require investing in training, staffing, and infrastructure to improve care quality and compliance.

• Effective onboarding can enhance staff readiness and competence in providing health and social care services, including compliance with statutory and mandatory training.

• The future of the CQC single assessment framework may involve ongoing refinement and adaptation to ensure it effectively evaluates the quality of care, including compliance with training requirements.

About the author

Dr Richard Dune

With over 20 years of experience, Dr Richard Dune blends a rich background in NHS, the private sector, academia, and research settings. His forte lies in clinical R&D, advancing healthcare tech, workforce development and governance. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance and innovation align seamlessly.

Related Blog Article

Click on the links below to read more articles from our team:

• What is the guidance on statutory and mandatory training?
• How to improve statutory and mandatory training in the UK
• Employee statutory and mandatory training requirements
• Who pays for statutory and mandatory training?