Courses

Choose the right level of course

Introductory level courses: for frontline workers who either do not work specifically in welfare rights or who are new to benefits advice work, who want to know about the benefit issues relevant to their clients to give basic advice or refer on. These courses can also act as a refresher for those with benefit advice experience.

Standard level courses: for people with some working knowledge of the benefits system, or the subject covered by the course. These courses are suitable for people who want to update skills in a specific area or wanting a refresher.

Experienced level courses: for more experienced workers who are confident about covering issues in more, and sometimes complex, detail.

Introduction To Benefits – Introductory level – 6 online modules

This course is designed to give people all the necessary tools they need to be able to accurately advise on benefit entitlement. You will have the opportunity to work through case studies and scenarios. These modules provide helpful hints and tactics on how best to support clients through the complexity of the welfare benefits system.

Benefits following a Bereavement – Standard level – 1 online module

This course will look in detail at the benefits available following a bereavement, including Bereavement Support Payment and Statutory Parental Bereavement Pay, as well as the impact on existing benefits. Case studies will be used to highlight entitlement and support learning.

Benefits for disabled young people including students – Experienced level – 2 online modules

This course will look in detail at what happens to parent claims as young people approach key ages (such as 16, 19 or 20) or leave education. Benefits available to disabled young people are also covered, including how disabled students can claim Universal Credit while in education. Case studies and calculations will be used to highlight entitlement and support learning.

Benefits for State Pension Age – Standard level – 2 online modules

This course will look in detail at the benefits available to people who have reached State Pension age. Case studies and calculations will be used to highlight entitlement and support learning.

Benefits Overview – Working Age – Introductory level – 2 online modules

This one-day course is designed for those who need to know about the benefits system and how it affects their clients. It will provide an overview of the benefits available and outline benefits for different groups of people, helping you identify benefit entitlement and maximise income.

Benefits to Help Pay Rent – Standard level – 2 online modules

This course will cover the rules of entitlement to help with rent via either Universal Credit or Housing Benefit. Case studies and calculations will be used to highlight entitlement and support learning.

Introduction to Universal Credit and Migration – Introductory level – 2 online modules

This course provides an overall understanding of Universal Credit including conditions of entitlement, calculation and how best to advise claimants.

Move to Universal Credit – Experienced level – 2 online modules

This course provides a detailed look at migration to Universal Credit including managed and natural migration, better-off calculations and how best to advise claimants. Case examples will highlight the issues involved and provide a basis for discussion.

PIP How to Get Right Decision – Standard level – 2 online modules

This course has been designed to give advisers in-depth knowledge to support their clients claim for Personal Independence Payment or challenge a Personal Independence Payment decision. It promotes stronger claims by offering a thorough understanding of the basis of decisions and how to challenge them.

Universal Credit – Income and Capital – Standard level – 1 online module

This course will provide an understanding of how different types of income are treated for Universal Credit and the rules about capital and its affect on Universal Credit. Common issues and problems will be identified, and the course will help you understand how income and capital effects a Universal Credit claim.

Universal Credit Housing Costs – Standard level – 1 online module

This course provides an understanding of who is eligible for help with housing costs in their Universal Credit award and how this is calculated.

Universal Credit and Work – Standard level – 1 online module

This course provides an understanding of the effect of work on Universal Credit entitlement. The course focuses on earnings assessment if you are employed or self-employed, the impact of changes in employment and working if you have limited capability for work.

“This service has a lead role in providing invaluable information services and training in the area.”