Audience

The primary audience is that of housing advisers and front-line staff working within the housing sector. However the awards are 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.

Benefits of the PDA award

• Opportunity for staff to develop knowledge and show commitment to continued professional development.
• Flexible programme as all courses are delivered on line.
• Accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority.
• PDA Housing Advice is available at SCQF level 6 and level 7.
• The award will be part of a larger, established suite of PDAs for the advice sector.

Level 6 award

• To enable candidates to develop a basic understanding of issues related to housing in order to offer advice and information.
• To enable candidates to develop a general, broad-based knowledge and understanding of key areas of housing issues including rights, benefits, grants, homelessness, arrears (both rent and mortgages), discrimination and the role of the local authority in relation to the application process.

Level 7 award

• To enable candidates to develop advanced knowledge of key housing issues in order to provide detailed advice to service users.
• To enable candidates to develop specific detailed knowledge of the law relating to the key issues surrounding security of tenure, homelessness, finance (arrears and repossession), repair and disrepair.
• To further develop the candidate's understanding of the causes and effects of key housing issues on individuals.
• To examine influences, internal and external on the provision of housing.

Further information

The following are available to download:

• SCQF information
  
• Pricing information
• Booking form