• PSPCOM503A - Build and maintain community relationships

Unit of Competency Mapping – Information for Teachers/Assessors – Information for Learners

PSPCOM503A Mapping and Delivery Guide
Build and maintain community relationships

Version 1.0
Issue Date: April 2024


Qualification -
Unit of Competency PSPCOM503A - Build and maintain community relationships
Description This unit covers building, rebuilding and maintaining trusting relationships with individuals and communities by public sector officers. It includes setting the parameters for relationships or partnerships, providing information relating to community engagement, and building community engagement and community problem solving capacity.In practice, building and maintaining community relationships overlaps with other generalist or specialist work activities such as acting ethically, providing leadership, developing client services, developing policy, undertaking research, facilitating change, etc.This is a new unit of competency, added to the Community Engagement Competency field of the Training Package in 2004.
Employability Skills This unit contains employability skills.
Learning Outcomes and Application Not applicable.
Duration and Setting X weeks, nominally xx hours, delivered in a classroom/online/blended learning setting.
Prerequisites/co-requisites Not applicable.
Competency Field Community Engagement.
Development and validation strategy and guide for assessors and learners Student Learning Resources Handouts
Activities
Slides
PPT
Assessment 1 Assessment 2 Assessment 3 Assessment 4
Elements of Competency Performance Criteria              
Element: Set the parameters for relationships or partnerships
  • A contextual framework is developed to assist in analysing and setting parameters for relationships/partnerships in accordance with organisational policy and procedure.
  • The parameters and purpose for the relationships/partnerships are established and agreed.
  • The emergence of new ideas and options are allowed for in the flexibility of the purpose.
  • The dynamics within and across relationships/partnerships are identified and managed.
  • Benefits for both parties are identified and agreed in accordance with organisational policy and procedure.
  • Constraints are identified, including time, procedural and resource limitations, and resources are allocated in accordance with organisational requirements.
       
Element: Provide information relating to community engagement
  • Current community understanding of the roles and responsibilities of public officials is assessed, and information is provided to clarify the roles and responsibilities in accordance with organisational policy and procedures.
  • The rights and responsibilities of individuals and communities to be involved in government processes and decision making are explained in a manner accessible to the audience.
  • Government/agency priorities, strategic direction, systems, decision making and approval processes are communicated using language, materials and timelines to suit the audience and the occasion.
  • Opportunities for community involvement in government/agency processes and decision making are communicated in ways suited to the diversity of the community.
       
Element: Build community engagement capacity
  • The skills and knowledge requirements of individuals and communities to engage with government are identified and addressed with a range of strategies tailored to individual needs.
  • Opportunities for individuals and communities to develop their capacity to engage with government are identified collaboratively, resourced and promoted in accordance with organisational policy and procedures.
  • Innovative strategies are developed and implemented to identify and reach out to those who have not yet connected with government, and those who have had a previous poor experience in attempting to engage with government.
  • Informal and formal community networks are tapped into to strengthen local capital and to ensure ongoing capacity.
  • Barriers to community engagement are identified and solutions formulated and implemented in accordance with organisational policy and procedures and community context.
       
Element: Build community problem-solving capacity
  • Information and opportunities for involvement in government processes and decision making are provided to individuals and communities in accordance with their needs and preferences.
  • Existing and new ways to engage with government are identified and promoted in a variety of ways suited to diverse communities.
  • Mechanisms for communities to raise their own issues with government are developed, implemented and promoted in accordance with organisational policy and procedures and community context.
  • A range of strategies to address community issues is developed in partnership with communities.
  • Mutually developed and agreed solutions to community issues are implemented in accordance with organisational policy and procedures.
  • Strategies for reporting developments to communities are identified and utilised.
       


Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

The Evidence Guide specifies the evidence required to demonstrate achievement in the unit of competency as a whole. It must be read in conjunction with the Unit descriptor, Performance Criteria, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Public Sector Training Package.

Units to be assessed together

Pre-requisite units that must be achieved prior to this unit:Nil

Co-requisite units that must be assessed with this unit:Nil

Co-assessed units that may be assessed with this unit to increase the efficiency and realism of the assessment process include, but are not limited to:

PSPCOM501A Prepare for community engagement

PSPCOM502A Develop and implement community engagement strategies

PSPETHC501B Promote the values and ethos of public service

PSPGOV502B Develop client services

PSPGOV504B Undertake research and analysis

PSPGOV505A Promote diversity

PSPGOV507A Undertake negotiations

PSPGOV508A Manage conflict

PSPGOV511A Provide leadership

PSPGOV512A Use complex workplace communication strategies

PSPGOV514A Facilitate change

PSPLEGN501B Promote compliance with legislation in the public sector

PSPOHS501A Monitor and maintain workplace safety

Overview of evidence requirements

In addition to integrated demonstration of the elements and their related performance criteria, look for evidence that confirms:

the knowledge requirements of this unit

the skill requirements of this unit

application of the Employability Skills as they relate to this unit (see Employability Summaries in Qualifications Framework)

community relationships built and maintained in a range of (3 or more) contexts (or occasions, over time)

Resources required to carry out assessment

These resources include:

community information, case studies or scenarios, including current journals, international case studies

community engagement theory, principles, practices and techniques

procedures and protocols for community engagement, including occupational health and safety

policy and legislation related to community engagement

public sector values and codes of conduct

Where and how to assess evidence

Valid assessment of this unit requires:

a workplace environment, or one that closely resembles normal work practice and replicates the range of conditions likely to be encountered when building and maintaining community relationships, including coping with difficulties, irregularities and breakdowns in routine

community relationships built and maintained in a range of (3 or more) contexts (or occasions, over time)

Assessment methods should reflect workplace demands, such as literacy, and the needs of particular groups, such as:

people with disabilities

people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

women

young people

older people

people in rural and remote locations

Assessment methods suitable for valid and reliable assessment of this competency may include, but are not limited to, a combination of 2 or more of:

case studies

demonstration

portfolios

projects

questioning

scenarios

authenticated evidence from the workplace and/or training courses

For consistency of assessment

Evidence must be gathered over time in a range of contexts to ensure the person can achieve the unit outcome and apply the competency in different situations or environments


Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assignment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)


Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

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

Skill requirements

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

establishing and fostering transparent, trusting relationships/partnerships with individuals and communities

maintaining multiple and potentially conflicting relationships/partnerships

working with diverse communities using a range of communication styles to suit different audiences and purposes

explaining complex and formal policies and concepts to a variety of audiences

responding to diversity, including gender and disability

applying lateral thinking to provide solutions and overcome barriers to community engagement

linking people to appropriate capacity-building opportunities

applying workplace safety procedures to community engagement activities

preparing community engagement information requiring the presentation of complex information using simple language structures and precision of expression

Knowledge requirements

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge and understanding of:

legislation, regulations, policies, procedures and guidelines relating to community engagement

community engagement theory, principles, practices and techniques

community development practices and principles

public sector values and codes of conduct

leadership and the managing of expectations in the context of community engagement

principles of cultural awareness and cross-cultural communication

equal employment opportunity, equity and diversity principles

workplace safety procedures relating to community engagement activities

The Range Statement provides information about the context in which the unit of competency is carried out. The variables cater for differences between States and Territories and the Commonwealth, and between organisations and workplaces. They allow for different work requirements, work practices and knowledge. The Range Statement also provides a focus for assessment. It relates to the unit as a whole. Text in italics in the Performance Criteria is explained here.

A contextual framework may include:

dynamics of community

community power structures

big political versus community politics (big 'P' v little 'p')

collaborations

networks

formal or informal partnerships

timelines for relationship building

purpose of partnership/relationship building and therefore type of partnership/relationship to be developed

level of agency support

Relationships/ partnerships may be with:

individuals

community groups

ethnic communities

local residents - through place-based initiatives

non-government organisations

private sector organisations

other public sector agencies

media organisations

business community

industry specific target groups

Constraints may include:

lack of knowledge

lack of understanding

lack of decision making powers

lack of time and resources

geographic location

previous experiences with engagement processes

community angst or lack of trust

organisational capacity to respond to community

external factors (including non-negotiables)

perceived status of organisation in the community

community expectations of the partnership/relationship

cost for the community to be involved, such as transport, time off work, childcare

Opportunities for community involvement may include:

'whole of government' forums and networks as part of regional/place-based strategies

'whole of community' projects as part of regional/place-based strategies

policy development

program or service delivery planning or decision making

review or evaluation or existing policies, programs or services

involvement through:

Cabinet sittings

charettes

citizens' panels/juries

community-based information

consultations

correspondence with/to Members of Parliament

direct participation

employment of local community members

focus groups

government announcements

information flows

media campaigns

one-on-one meetings

parliamentary sittings

participation in local events

public meetings/forums

regional forums

response/s to questionnaires

scenario planning

think tanks

visioning

workshops

Community diversity may include differences in:

age

cultural background

educational level

English language proficiency

ethnicity

expertise

family responsibilities

gender

household structure (couples, singles, single parents, single sex partners)

interests

interpersonal approach

language

length of residence

life experience

marital status

mobility

physical ability

political orientation

religious belief

sexual orientation

socio-economic background

thinking/learning styles

work experiences

Opportunities for individuals and communities to develop their capacity may include:

formal and informal leadership programs

formal or informal mentoring and coaching programs

access to resources and information to build knowledge

community visioning

community development

attendance at workshops

agency professional development

participation opportunities

formal learning opportunities

community building networks

Innovative strategies must:

be tailored to those being approached

take account of past failures/difficulties

take advantage of a range of media/communication channels

Informal and formal community networks may include:

interest groups

clubs

associations

leadership structures

community leaders/elders (place-based)

word of mouth

web-based information networks

electronic communication

(online) virtual learning communities

reference groups

church groups

service clubs

existing multi-agency reference groups

school networks

community organisations

community services

non-government organisations

religious and cultural networks

Barriers to community engagement may include:

access constraints

community perception that nothing ever comes from engagement with government - 'talk fest'

cultural barriers

diversity variables listed previously

geographical isolation

inappropriate timing, venues and strategies

lack of awareness of the full range of government services

lack of clear branding in government communications

lack of confidence or trust in government

lack of follow-up within community engagement strategies

lack of information at the local level through local resources such as community newspapers

lack of interest in or commitment to the issues

lack of knowledge about the structure of government (at all three levels)

lack of openness/transparency

lack of understanding about an actual issue - building knowledge and literacy, knowing the scenarios

lack of understanding or clarity about the engagement process

language issues

limited access to effective information in first language

little access to traditional ethnic media channels such as print and radio or an integrated mix

mobility issues

over-reliance on or sole use of electronic media and Internet

poor integration of government information strategies

poor monitoring and feedback loops

poor past experiences with engagement processes

previous over-consultation

social capital gate keepers - residents who block broad participation

socio-economic levels

the difficulty of contacting the right area of government first time (no 'one number for government')

the terminology and style of copy used in government information

time constraints

unequal access to information, participation, influence on decision making

New ways to engage may include:

active participation in government planning and decisions making through a range of innovative and appropriate methods and techniques such as:

citizens' juries

citizens' panels

deliberative polling

negotiation tables

online consultation

policy round tables

policy action teams

search conferences

Community issues may include:

local solutions to a range of local issues

new or improved services or programs

infrastructure

strategic planning

community development

crime reduction

Strategies to address issues may include:

community planning processes

community development processes

collaborative service and program planning

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
A contextual framework is developed to assist in analysing and setting parameters for relationships/partnerships in accordance with organisational policy and procedure. 
The parameters and purpose for the relationships/partnerships are established and agreed. 
The emergence of new ideas and options are allowed for in the flexibility of the purpose. 
The dynamics within and across relationships/partnerships are identified and managed. 
Benefits for both parties are identified and agreed in accordance with organisational policy and procedure. 
Constraints are identified, including time, procedural and resource limitations, and resources are allocated in accordance with organisational requirements. 
Current community understanding of the roles and responsibilities of public officials is assessed, and information is provided to clarify the roles and responsibilities in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. 
The rights and responsibilities of individuals and communities to be involved in government processes and decision making are explained in a manner accessible to the audience. 
Government/agency priorities, strategic direction, systems, decision making and approval processes are communicated using language, materials and timelines to suit the audience and the occasion. 
Opportunities for community involvement in government/agency processes and decision making are communicated in ways suited to the diversity of the community. 
The skills and knowledge requirements of individuals and communities to engage with government are identified and addressed with a range of strategies tailored to individual needs. 
Opportunities for individuals and communities to develop their capacity to engage with government are identified collaboratively, resourced and promoted in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. 
Innovative strategies are developed and implemented to identify and reach out to those who have not yet connected with government, and those who have had a previous poor experience in attempting to engage with government. 
Informal and formal community networks are tapped into to strengthen local capital and to ensure ongoing capacity. 
Barriers to community engagement are identified and solutions formulated and implemented in accordance with organisational policy and procedures and community context. 
Information and opportunities for involvement in government processes and decision making are provided to individuals and communities in accordance with their needs and preferences. 
Existing and new ways to engage with government are identified and promoted in a variety of ways suited to diverse communities. 
Mechanisms for communities to raise their own issues with government are developed, implemented and promoted in accordance with organisational policy and procedures and community context. 
A range of strategies to address community issues is developed in partnership with communities. 
Mutually developed and agreed solutions to community issues are implemented in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. 
Strategies for reporting developments to communities are identified and utilised. 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

PSPCOM503A - Build and maintain community relationships
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

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Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:


Assessment Record Sheet

PSPCOM503A - Build and maintain community relationships

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

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Signature:

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