Duty of Care Course

Course Overview

Duty of care is a fundamental legal and ethical obligation that applies to all employers, employees, and organisations. It requires individuals and organisations to take reasonable steps to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of those who may be affected by their actions or decisions. In Ireland, duty of care is enshrined in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and various other legislative instruments.

This CPD-accredited online course provides a comprehensive overview of what duty of care means in practice, the legal framework that underpins it, and how individuals and organisations can fulfil their obligations. Learners will explore real-world scenarios to understand how duty of care applies across different sectors and situations.

About This Course

Duty of care is not simply a legal requirement — it is a moral responsibility that lies at the heart of professional practice. Whether you work in healthcare, education, social care, or any other sector, understanding your duty of care obligations is essential for protecting the people you work with and the organisation you represent.

This course explores the concept of duty of care in depth, covering the legal principles of negligence, the standard of care expected in different professional contexts, and the consequences of failing to meet your obligations. Learners will examine how duty of care intersects with other legal requirements such as safeguarding, health and safety legislation, and data protection.

The course also provides practical guidance on how to handle situations where duty of care obligations may conflict with other considerations, such as an individual's right to make their own decisions. Through case studies and practical examples, learners will develop the skills and confidence to navigate these complex situations in their professional practice.

Who Is This Course For?

This course is suitable for healthcare workers, social care professionals, educators, managers, and anyone who has a responsibility for the care and wellbeing of others in their professional role.