The SSSC administers the VSDF on behalf of the Scottish Government. Around £728,000 is available during 2026-27 to contribute to costs associated with staff meeting the required registration qualification criteria we set.
VSDF funding helps employers to achieve a qualified workforce and we would particularly like small and medium-sized organisations to apply.
Eligible workers
Workers eligible for support this year, as agreed by us the SSSC, the Coalition of Care and Support Providers in Scotland (CCPS) and Scottish Government are:
| Register part | Level | Service type |
| Social care worker | Support worker | Care at home service |
| Housing support service | ||
| Care home service for adults | ||
| Practitioner | Care at home service | |
| Housing support service | ||
| Care home service for adults | ||
| Supervisor (practice qualification only) | Care at home service | |
| Housing support service | ||
| Care home service for adults |
Funding is available for SVQ Social Services and Healthcare at SCQF level 6 or 7.
For 2026-2027, the SSSC and Scottish Government would encourage level 7 applications to support supervisors who have had an extension to their qualification condition and still have to gain their practice qualification.
VSDF funding cannot be used to support employees undertaking a modern apprenticeship route.
A maximum of £1,200 is available for each worker who undertakes the SVQ in Social Services and Healthcare at Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework SCQF level 6 or level 7 after 1 January 2027.
We want to support as many staff as possible to meet the required registration qualification with the funding available and get value for money. Each organisation can apply for a maximum of £24,000. However, if the total requested funding (from all organisations) exceeds the available grant, the awarded amounts will be proportionally reduced.
Apply now
Please ensure you read the following guidance before completing the application:
Please send completed applications to vsdf@sssc.uk.com by 5pm on Friday 4 September 2026. We will not consider late applications.
Applying organisations will receive an acknowledgement email from a member of the SSSC VSDF team confirming receipt of the application. If you do not receive this within 10 working days, please contact us to make sure we have received your application. The automated reply email is not confirmation of receipt.
For more information or if you have any questions please email: VSDF@sssc.uk.com