Poor practice in relation to the administration of medicines can lead to serious errors being made and ultimately cause injury to people using health and social care services. Therefore, it’s essential that care staff understand procedures for handling medicines safely and that they follow safe practice guidelines when dealing with medicine administration. This qualification aims to develop learners’ knowledge of the safe handling of medicines within a health and social care context. It provides an introduction to the various medicines learners are likely to encounter in a work environment, covering how medication is supplied and administered, and the possible side effects. The programme explores the procedures for obtaining, storing and disposing of medicines and the legislation surrounding these three areas. It also emphasises the importance of the audit process and issues surrounding responsibility, accountability and confidentiality.