Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range Statement explains the scope and context of the unit of competency allowing for differences between workplaces. The scope of variables chosen for training and assessment requirements will depend on the particular work situation.

Links may be:
Referral to and from other services
Telephone contact
Worker networks
Informal contacts
Case conferences
Inter agency meetings
Community consultative committees
Joint projects

Relevant services may include:
Consumer groups
Commercial enterprises such as real estate agents, and financial institutions
Community services departments
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander services
Employment services
Community based disability support services
Income support services
Accommodation services
Services specific to the person's needs
Transcultural
Religious organisations
Judicial
Correctional
Police
Emergency services

Information may include:
Pamphlets
List of all relevant services
Information on own agency

Support may include:
Visits
Consultations
Joint initiatives
Participation in case conferences
Telephone advice
Provision of staff development and training
Exchanging of reports
Community education

Policies and procedures may include:
Referral protocols

The Evidence Guide identifies the critical aspects of assessment, and the essential knowledge and skills to be demonstrated to confirm competency in this unit. The Evidence Guide is an integral part of the assessment of competency and it should be read carefully in conjunction with the Range Statement, elements and performance criteria.
Critical aspects of assessment:
Facilitating effective working relationships within community services and within the general community

Essential knowledge:
Existing information systems
Referral networks - criteria and procedures for referral
Current community services issues
Language used in community services work
Range of community services and how to access
Confidentiality and privacy
Knowledge specific to working with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

Essential skills:
Questioning
Active listening
Verbal and non verbal communication
Referral
Participating and conducting interagency meetings
Promotion
Negotiation
Liaison and networking
Recognising own limitations and agency boundaries
Developing and providing information about community services

Resource implications:
Access to appropriate workplace where assessment can take place; or
Simulation of realistic workplace setting for assessment

Consistency in performance:
Consistency in performance should consider the community services networking and liaison requirements within the workplace

Context for assessment:
This unit is best assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace under the normal range of conditions