The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this unit of competency:

The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills

Evidence must include observation of performance in the work environment or in a simulated work setting

Evidence must include demonstration over a period of time to ensure consistency of performance

Access and equity considerations:

All workers in community services should be aware of access, equity and human rights issues in relation to their own area of work

All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment

In recognition of particular issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, workers should be aware of cultural, historical and current issues impacting on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues, in particular relating to factors impacting on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Context of and specific resources for assessment:

This unit can be delivered and assessed independently, however holistic assessment practice with other community services units of competency is encouraged

Resource requirements for assessment include access to:

an appropriate workplace where assessment can be conducted or simulation of realistic workplace setting for assessment

equipment and resources normally used in the workplace

Method of assessment may include:

Observations

Questioning

Evidence gathered from the workplace environment

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

These include knowledge of:

Available services and constraints on delivery

The broader service delivery and training networks in the local area

Process of referral and documentation of the referral

Essential skills:

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:

Identify presenting needs and respond appropriately within the guidelines of the service

Interpret and apply relevant policies

Demonstrate application of skills in:

appropriate one to one communication process

record-keeping and documentation processes, including effective use of relevant information technology in line with occupational health and safety (OHS) guidelines

The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.

Presenting needs refers to:

Those readily observable or easily communicated needs prior to any counselling service
Examples include:

unemployment

lack of benefit payment

difficulty in communicating

cognitive impairment

financial difficulties

Service expectations refers to:

The type of assistance the client considers they require and includes a comment on urgency and breadth of the requirement.

Process of referral may:

Differ between agencies, however in the context of this unit it is implied that there is a formal process which is applied and communicated

Plan of action refers to:

The agreed responsibilities and actions to support the client move towards increased interaction and engagement with the community