Updated Advice and Guidance NOS available| Skills for Justice

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 the 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 and 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.

Background

The need for this review arose following changes in demand for services, working practices and language since these NOS (National Occupational Standards) were last reviewed in 2015.

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

NOS now available

Skills for Justice has completed the following project during 2025-2026:

A review of the Advice and Guidance NOS

This project was governed by a UK-wide Steering Group which provided sector specific advice and guidance on the content of the NOS. A consultation was also held in late 2025 to gather wider views from across the sector. Feedback from the steering group and consultation informed the development of these revised NOS.

The updated NOS can be found on the UK Standards website.

If you have any immediate questions, please complete the form below.

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