Shelter Scotland Enterprise has launched a new online Foundation Knowledge training programme. Money and Benefit Advice for Housing Advisers is designed to help advisers to develop the necessary knowledge to support people facing difficulties with benefits, mortgage arrears and the threat of eviction.

The primary audience for this training is housing advisers and front-line staff working within the housing sector. However the award is not specifically for those in the housing sector and will be of interest and use to other staff groups working in the wider field of advice and guidance.

This award is very similar to the Professional Development Award (PDA) but is accredited by IASU of the Scottish Government (formerly HomePoint). Like the PDA, it has been designed for staff providing advice and support to clients on housing issues whether as a dedicated key function or as part of a wider role.