Advice Services

The provision of advice requires more interaction with the service user, usually on a one-to-one basis. It may require explanation of some of the information provided, how to access and use information, and a recognition of when more in-depth services may be required by the user.

Core Advice Services

Core advice services should include the following, as appropriate for the individual:

• interpreting any information and taking into account personal circumstances;
• an individualised service tailored to users’ needs;
• personalised information including possible referral to in-depth services;
• helping users to use decision making tools;
• helping service users to link their personal interests and/or skills to their desired job/career requirements;
• identifying basic skills needs and referring those clients to sources of help in gaining basic skills in literacy, language and numeracy;
• meaningful interpretation of Labour Market Information and Intelligence;
• advice on the financial and other support available to adult learners, such as Level 2 Entitlement and the Adult Learning Grant as they are introduced nationally;
• basic advice around services available during redundancy including how to access them, whom to contact, and where to go;
• advice on job search methods (CV, interview skills, applications for support or referral to enhanced services);
• considering possible progression paths, personalising options;
• knowing what is and is not available and/or possible and discussing alternatives.