The whole course is based around modules and you have to combine these in order to achieve a qualification. The modules are numbered from 301 to 310.

There are 2 types of module;

301 – 304 are L3 core modules that form the basis of the qualification. In addition modules 305 to 310 are stand alone L4 specialist modules that reflect advocates individual areas of work.

Below is a list of the modules we at Asist are offering;

Mandatory Level 3 Core Modules in:

301 - Purposes and Principles of Independent Advocacy

302 - Providing Independent Advocacy Support

303 - Maintaining the Independent Advocacy Relationship

304 - Responding to the advocacy needs of different groups of people

Level 4 Specialist Modules in:

305 - Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy

306 - Independent Mental Health Advocacy

308 - Providing Independent Advocacy to Adults

310 - Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy – Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards

There are a variety of ways you can complete the qualification. There are a range of units and modules to suit particular roles. 

Details of modules and units are also available at the City and Guilds web site.

Although we can provide training to allow you to achieve any combination of the modules, the most useful combinations for advocates are as follows.

1. You can complete modules 301 – 304 which would demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the practice of advocacy. However, alone, it would not allow you to achieve the full certificate.
2. You can complete a L4 (305, 306, 308) stand alone specialist module which would be useful for some advocates in specialist roles such as IMCA, and IMHA. However, alone, this would not allow you to achieve the full certificate.
3. You can combine the L3 core units (301-304) with a specialist unit (305, 306, 308) of your choice, to achieve the full certificate.
4. You can combine the L3 core units (301-304) with the specialist unit 305 (IMCA) AND specialist unit 310 (DoLS) to achieve the full diploma. You must have an active IMCA/DoLS caseload in order to be able to provide the evidence for the diploma.

Simple, consistant system designed to work logically. No more complicated forms.

At Asist we believe that using an electronic portfolio and assessment system offers you the most efficient and convenient way to develop your portfolio.

We believe the main benefits to you of using the Ecordia system are:

• a convenient way of collating information and then sharing it without the need for site visits. It allows candidates to work on their award when it suits them and keeps track of where you are and what you need to do at the touch of a button.
• choose how you capture the data - by means of a scanned document, digital camera, and camera phone or even send in a sound file from a Dictaphone and then upload it to your unique password protected file on the system.  Only you and your assessor can access your portfolio.
• supported remotely by your assessor to review your work and provide feedback. The system keeps track of the qualification progress and allows for e mailing between the assessor and candidate so they keep in touch.
• type directly into the system, no additional word-processing software is required. Alternatively, users can copy word documents into the portfolio including all formatting.
• evidence can be inputted into Ecordia by the leaner and / or the assessor, providing total flexibility.

For more information on our electronic portfolio system follow the below link.

There are various ways you can achieve the qualification of your choice. Most people will choose a combination of classroom based training with distance learning support from our team of TAQA qualified trainer/assessors.

The classroom based input involves working through the materials with other candidates using a variety of methods for a period of 1 to 3 days depending on the combination you choose to complete the qualification. Classroom based input is not always compulsory, it depends on the route you choose. Please see the combinations page on this website for more detail.

You will always be required to develop an electronic portfolio of work that will involve distance learning using our qualified assessors. You will be assessed through this evidence based portfolio. 

This portfolio will demonstrate your competency against different learning outcomes.  The portfolio will comprise of evidence based on observations, self reflection, written assignments and feedback from colleagues.

You will be supported at every step by our qualified assessors to complete your portfolio. Further details of the support you will receive are available on our support page. In addition, we use an electronic portfolio system called Ecordia. This simple, convenient, web based system allows candidates to work on their award when it suits them, and keeps track of where you are and what you need to do at the touch of a button.
At Asist we believe this is such a useful tool that we have dedicated a page of this website to describe how Ecordia works.

Below is a breakdown of the costs of undertaking the training with Asist.
We are aware that many advocates and advocacy organisations may require levels of classroom input and distance support that do not meet the standard model.

The below prices are guidelines structured around a standard delivery model. Please contact us for a quote based on your individual requirements

We offer flexible routes and a variety of discounted options dependent on your individual needs. If you wish to discuss any bespoke arrangements we will be more than happy to do so. Please see our contact page for details.

305 - IMCA  =  £490  (compulsory classroom training)
306 – IMHA =  £490   (compulsory classroom training)
310 - DoLS, =  £290   (compulsory classroom training)
308 – Adults = £490  (with optional classroom training)
308 – Adults =  £350 (without optional classroom training)
301 – 304 - Core, = £850 (incl induction)
Full Certificate with module 308 (adults)  £999 (incl optional classroom input)
Full Certificate with module 308 (adults)  £899 (without optional classroom input)
Full Certificate with IMCA  Module =  £1,100 (compulsory classroom training)
Full Certificate with IMHA  Module =  £1,100 (compulsory classroom training)
Full Diploma (Core + IMCA + DoLS) =  £1,250 (compulsory classroom training)

Additional assessor visits can be arranged at a cost of £230 per day, plus travel and accommodation as necessary.