10 days : Thursdays 8 May - 17 July 2008 (with a break for half term )
10 am - 4 pm
Closing date: 24 April
You must be committed to the whole time span as the course includes elements of independent research and applied learning in the student's individual organisations. Attendance on all teaching days is compulsory.
In the week of Day 9 (week commencing 7 July) you need to be available on the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday as you will be presenting your tribunal on one of these days.
The course will have aholiday breaks on week commencing 26 May 2008
The aim of the course is to provide an introduction to the skills and knowledge required by advisers to represent members of the public at benefit appeal tribunals and to improve the prospects of those hoping to seek paid employment in which appeal representation will be a requirement.
The course will offer an overview of Social Security law and practice, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to locate and interpret benefits legislation, case law and guidance. You will prepare your own case using relevant legislation and caselaw and evidence. On Day 9, you will present an appeal in your chosen subject area to a mock tribunal panel. The final day of the course will explore the options available to a client who has not achieved the desired outcome from an appeal tribunal hearing.
Good practice issues will be integral to the programme - for example, working with clients, obtaining supporting evidence for tribunals from medical professionals and evaluation of different styles of representation. You will also have the benefit of discussing styles, tips and tactics with experienced Welfare Rights Advisers. An awareness of the needs of disadvantaged people, particularly those with physical and mental disabilities, will underpin the course.
At least six months experience of social security benefits advice work is required, or successful completion of our Introduction to Welfare Benefits course. Acceptance onto the course is dependant upon successful completion of a pre-course assignment, which tests benefits knowledge and literacy.
Course programme:
Unit One - Challenging Decisions
· Structure of the social security system
· Finding and using the law, case law and guidance
· The role of a representative
Unit Two - Preparing Social Security Appeal Tribunals
· Analysis of the DWP (Dept of Work & Pensions) doctor's role
· Identifying and obtaining evidence
· Evaluation of the merits of the medical evidence and impact upon the case
Unit Three - Representing at Appeal Tribunals
· Prepare an Appeal submission
· Represent in a mock tribunal setting
· Challenging Appeal tribunal decisions
Accreditation and assessment The course is accredited by OCN to level 3. Delegates will be tested by assessments to complete at home and in class evaluation. Accreditation can only be awarded where people have attended all sessions and passed the related assessments. Follow the link for details on choosing to receive an OCN certificate and relevant charges.
Cost of course
Training venue
Training terms and conditions
Booking form
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Information Provider:
Steph Greenshields
Date Written:
19th December 2006
Date Reviewed:
8 January 2008