Information, Advice or Guidance - Level 2

Employers are often interested in candidates who can demonstrate an understanding of the importance of interacting appropriately with customers, clients and colleagues. Studying this course will provide an in-depth understanding of the key areas associated with giving effective IAG. Knowledge and skills learnt will include signposting, referrals, record keeping, confidentiality and communication/listening techniques.

What will I study on this course?

• Unit 1: Information, advice or guidance in practice

Learn about the various differences between information, advice and guidance and the requirements of different clients and how these are best met. It will also help gain in-depth knowledge of the boundaries and responsibilities present when offering information, advice and guidance, including signposting, referrals and record keeping.

• Unit 2: Developing interaction skills for information, advice or guidance

Discover how to interact with clients, executing appropriate and effective questioning techniques, listening skills and non-verbal communication. Gain knowledge of the impact of values, beliefs and attitudes on any interactions that may be encountered, as well as the importance of confidentiality and impartiality.

• Unit 3: Signposting and referral in information, advice or guidance

Gain an understanding of the difference between signposting and referrals when it is appropriate to refer or signpost an individual organisations procedures. Employees will also gain knowledge of good practice when signposting and referring, including recording, monitoring and evaluating.

• Unit 4: Information, advice or guidance in context

Gain an understanding of information, advice or guidance in the context of their own practice and a specific group of clients. Exploring different ways of assisting clients to explore and make choices. Knowledge on discriminatory practices and behaviours affecting specific client groups, as well as potential barriers and how to overcome them, are explored within this unit.

• Unit 5: Skills for advice providers

This unit provides an understanding of the purpose and process of an advice interview, examining the relationship between client and advisor, the advisors role, stages of the advice interview and how to ensure client confidentiality. A key part of this section is gaining knowledge of social policy in advice work, negotiating effectively on a clients behalf and support and action planning.

You will be asked a series of eligibility questions upon enrolment.

Fee information

Adult (19+) learners

Depending on your age, course, educational history and personal circumstances, there may be options available for you to receive a course fully-funded by the government. Our fee calculator will help give you an idea on whether you'll be able to have your course fee waived or covered by an Advanced Learner Loan.

Complete our fee calculator

Learners with an active Education, Health & Care Plan

If you are aged 19 - 24 at the start of your course and have an active Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP), any course up to and including level 3 will be fully-funded by the government. This means you will not have a course fee to pay and any equipment considered essential to complete your course will be provided by the college.

What qualification will I achieve?

Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance

How is my course assessed?

Online e-learning with modular units to complete.