NGRF - UK National Guidance Research Forum

Join the discussion about this question below, or make your own contribution to the consultation on the IAG Review website.

What is the present information, advice and guidance infrastructure and how can it be made more coherent across ages and providers?

The summary of responses (total 56) from the IAG website as of the 30 June 2006 suggest that, in relation to the present IAG infrastructure :

Opinion is divided, but with only a small number of respondents regarding the current infrastructure as adequate, with a few examples of good practice provided.  The majority of respondents identify problems.  These include: the confusion caused by the different branding of services (nextstep, Connexions, learndirect, Job Centre Plus, etc.); the lack of integration of current service provision; the discriminatory effects of resources based on the pre-level 2 criteria; top-heavy, hierarchical and bureaucratic requirements; inadequate marketing of services; the inconsistency of quality assurance requirements across providers (e.g. current exclusion of educational providers from minimum standard requirements); lack of clear service provision for 19 + year olds; out-dated terminology; the impact of stand-still and reduced, budgets; and the lack of profile given to Trade Union Learner Representatives.

An overwhelming majority of respondents identify the need for a universal, all age, integrated, comprehensive and free service.  Many emphasised the need for accredited and competent practitioners to deliver the service.  Finally, the strengthening of existing quality assurance systems is highlighted as necessary for building effective and efficient services.