Free Care Giver Online Courses in 2026

Free Caregiver Online Courses with Certification 

If you’re thinking about becoming a caregiver, upskilling, or just learning the basics of care work in 2026, the good news is there are actual free online courses available that can help you build knowledge — and in some cases earn a certificate you can use on a CV or portfolio.

Caregiving is not something you should take lightly: you’re dealing with real health, safety, and wellbeing outcomes, so learning from reputable sources matters.

Here’s a breakdown of caregiver training you can access online for free in 2026, what you’ll learn in each course, who it’s best for, and how to get started.

1. Introduction to Caregiving (Alison)

A free online caregiving course hosted on Alison that introduces you to the foundations of caregiving — from understanding roles and responsibilities, to basic support skills for people who need help daily.

Who it’s for:
Beginners, family caregivers, anyone considering caregiving as a career path, or people who want formal recognition of basic care knowledge.

What you’ll learn:

• The fundamentals of caregiving

• How to support daily living tasks (feeding, hygiene, mobility)

• Communication and relationship skills with patients

• Emotional support basics
  
  

Certification:
Yes — Alison offers a free learner record upon completion, and you can add an optional certificate (usually for a small fee) if you want to include it on your CV or LinkedIn.

Start Now: Alison — Introduction to Caregiving

Also look: Best ECD Free Online Courses Offered By Alison

2. The Basics of First Aid (SafetyCulture)

This free resource isn’t a full caregiving qualification, but it’s one of the most important building blocks for anyone in a caregiving role: basic first aid.

Who it’s for:
All caregivers, family members responsible for older adults or children, and anyone who wants confidence in emergency response basics.

What you’ll learn:

• How to assess an emergency situation

• CPR and resuscitation basics

• First aid for cuts, burns, choking, and fractures

• When to call emergency services

SafetyCulture’s online library offers the course content for free — but note that this is informative training, not a formal accredited certificate like from SETA. However, you’ll gain critical practical knowledge that many employers look for in care assistants.

Start Now: SafetyCulture — The Basics of First Aid

In caregiving, knowing first aid basics can literally save a life. Whether you’re working in homes, facilities, or supporting family members, this knowledge sets you apart.

3. Family Caregiver Guidance & Support (HomeCareGenerations)

Not a formal course platform, but a trusted guide and training resource that covers caregiving from the perspective of family and informal caregivers.

Who it’s for:
People caring for loved ones — parents, spouses, grandparents, people with disabilities, and those navigating long-term illnesses at home.

What you’ll learn:

• Creating a caregiving routine

• Legal and financial aspects of caregiving

• Emotional and mental health support

• Tips for avoiding caregiver burnout

• Support resources for family caregivers
  
  

Certification:
This is support and knowledge content, not an accredited course. It’s more like an in-depth guide to caregiving realities and responsibilities.

Start Now: HomeCareGenerations — Family Caregiver Resource 

Not every caregiver works in a professional role. Many people become caregivers for family members, and having a guide that covers not only tasks but wellbeing, boundaries, and self-care is crucial. This resource fills that gap.

Where to Find Caregiver Courses in South Africa 

A South African–focused overview of caregiver training options, including learnerships, free courses, and accredited programmes you can find locally.

People in South Africa who want context relevant to local regulations, providers, and work opportunities.

What you’ll find:

• Places to find caregiver training locally

• Differences between accredited learnerships and short courses

• Links to SETA learnership programmes

• Notes on funding and requirements (if you’re South African)

Also look: 3 Simple Ways to find Seta Accredited Online Courses

If you want workplace placement, certificates recognised by employers, or learnerships that lead to entry-level roles, you’ll likely need to follow up with formal accredited institutions or SETA-aligned programmes — but these free care giver courses give you a head start on real knowledge before that.