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What is APS?
APS consists of 12 elements which focus on the key management and operational areas that underpin the effectiveness of any mentoring or befriending project.
Projects are required to demonstrate that they address and comply with requirements of each element, further information can be found in the APS detailed guidance.
| Element 1 | The project or service has a clear rationale and purpose |
| Element 2 | Effective organisational and management structures |
| Element 3 | The competence of staff involved in the project is developed and maintained |
| Element 4 | There is a clear process for the identification and referral of service users |
| Element 5 | Service users are fully briefed about the project or service |
| Element 6 | Rigorous recruitment and selection process for volunteers |
| Element 7 | Safeguarding the involvement of participants in the project |
| Element 8 | Adequate preparation and training is in place for volunteers |
| Element 9 | Process in place for matching service users with mentors/befrienders |
| Element 10 | Supervision and support provided for mentors/befrienders |
| Element 11 | Monitoring of relationships |
| Element 12 | Evaluation of project effectiveness |
From point of sign up you will be classified as “working towards” achieving the standard and have a set 12 month time-frame in which to complete the full assessment process. Some projects will not require the full 12 months to complete the process.
A self diagnostic tool and action plan is also used to evidence the elements at point of assessment. Assessments are undertaken by our trained assessors through completion of an on-site assessment visit; involving interviews with a range of project stakeholders and evidence sampling.
Successful projects are accredited for a three year period and receive a copy of the assessment report, digital logo for promotional use, inclusion in the online projects directory and a framed certificate.
All our training courses and resources have been designed to help you meet the key elements of our APS, projects who are APS accredited or ‘working towards’ will receive 20% discount on all National Training Programme (NTP) courses and resources.
We have also set up an APS working towards discussion forum, where you can debate, discuss and share your APS working towards experiences.
Download the APS leaflet for more information or watch our APS DVD – Talking quality standards!
