CSTF-aligned statutory and mandatory training in the UK

The Core Skills Training Framework (CSTF) is a nationally recognised framework (originating in NHS England) that sets out minimum learning outcomes, target audiences, and expected refresher/competence arrangements for core statutory and mandatory subjects. It’s used widely across NHS organisations and is also commonly adopted by independent and voluntary-sector providers to standardise compliance training and support staff mobility.

What “CSTF-aligned” means in practice

A course described as CSTF-aligned should:

• map clearly to the relevant CSTF learning outcomes (and the appropriate level where stated)

• meet the framework’s delivery expectations (e.g., how learning outcomes are achieved and evidenced)

• follow the subject guide’s approach to refresher intervals and/or competence assessment (where permitted), with local risk assessment shaping any additional training needs

The core CSTF subjects (commonly referenced set)

The CSTF (England) is commonly referenced as covering 11 core topics:

1. Conflict resolution

2. Equality, diversity and human rights

3. Fire safety

4. Health, safety and welfare

5. Infection prevention and control

6. Information governance and data security

7. Moving and handling

8. Preventing radicalisation (Prevent)

9. Resuscitation

10. Safeguarding adults

11. Safeguarding children

Most organisations then add role-/setting-specific training on top (e.g., MCA/DoLS, medicines management, dementia, PMVA/breakaway, sepsis), based on service risk and regulatory expectations.

NHS StatMand alignment (e-learning)

The NHS Statutory and Mandatory Training (StatMand/SMT) e-learning programmes are designed to align to CSTF outcomes and standards, helping to reduce duplication and support consistent baseline capability.

The Mandatory Training Group – relevant CSTF-aligned courses (brief)

MTG offers CSTF-aligned modules and packages mapped to the CSTF core areas. Examples include:

Individual CSTF modules (examples)

• CSTF Conflict Resolution – Level 1

• CSTF Infection Prevention and Control – Level 1 and Level 2

• CSTF Safeguarding Adults – Levels 1, 2 and 3

CSTF-aligned packages (examples)

• UKCSTF-aligned mandatory training packages for defined staff groups (bundling core subjects for simpler compliance management and reporting)

References

1. Skills for Health – Core Skills Training Framework (CSTF) overview.

2. Skills for Health – CSTF (England) Subject Guide (incl. the core subjects and learning outcomes).

3. e-Learning for Healthcare (e-LfH) – Statutory and Mandatory Training programme information (alignment to CSTF).

4. NHS England – Statutory and Mandatory Training (StatMand) programme information/updates.

5. NHS Learning Hub – Statutory and Mandatory Training programme catalogue pages.

6. The Mandatory Training Group – CSTF Conflict Resolution (Healthcare) Level 1 course page.

7. The Mandatory Training Group – CSTF Infection Prevention and Control Level 1/2 course pages.

8. The Mandatory Training Group – CSTF Safeguarding Adults Levels 1–3 course pages.

9. The Mandatory Training Group – UKCSTF-aligned mandatory training package pages and Statutory & Mandatory training catalogue.