Help shape the future of Advice and Guidance National Occupational Standards

Statements of competence

NOS describe the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to undertake a particular task or job to a nationally recognised level of competence. They focus on what a person needs to be able to do, as well as what they must know and understand to work effectively. They cover the key activities undertaken within the occupation in question under all the circumstances the job holder is likely to encounter.

Each NOS contains an agreed set of knowledge, understanding and performance criteria that must be met before someone can be deemed competent. They describe the minimum standard to which an individual is expected to work in a given occupation.

NOS in development

Skills for Justice is currently undertaking the following project during 2025-2026:

• A review of the Advice and Guidance NOS

This project is governed by a UK-wide Steering Group which provides sector specific advice and guidance on the content of the NOS.

Background

The need for this review has arisen following changes in demand for services, working practices and language since these NOS were last reviewed in 2015.

With extra demand on Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) services arising from the covid pandemic and financial crisis, the skills of those working and volunteering in these services are changing. It is therefore more important than ever to make sure the NOS reflect current practice.

“Much has changed in the workplace and in wider society since the Advice and Guidance NOS were first developed. This review work is vital to ensure that the sector has access to statements of competence that reflect the needs of the workforce so we can continue to serve those that access advice and guidance services. With UK wide application, these NOS provide employers and staff with assurance that they are working to nationally agreed standards.

“Once approved the NOS will be freely available for use by employers to use to support development of competence in the workplace, and for training providers and awarding bodies to benchmark the content of education and training.

“This survey provides you with the opportunity to review the draft standards and influence the final content for which I would like to thank the sector-wide steering group for their detailed work on getting to this point. I would therefore encourage you to contribute your feedback on this important work.”

Liz Carboni
Learning and Skills Manager, AdviceUK
Chair of the Advice and Guidance NOS Steering Group