The standards are designed for people entering social care, and those changing roles or employers within adult social care. They are designed to be met within a 12-week period, and were developed to reflect recent changes to the NVQ requirements and the General Social Care Council Code of Practice.

The new 12-week CIS induction period will enable care workers to give high quality care and support, provide recognition for their work, and prepare them for entry onto NVQ health and social care programmes and will prepare them for their career development.

The CIS provide a structured start for new care staff. Previous research has demonstrated that a structured start, alongside opportunities for professional development, play an important part in improved staff retention