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Money and Debt Advice

 

Our CICM qualifications in Money and Debt Advice are Ofqual regulated and accredited against the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) Quality Framework for initial contact, support work and advice work.

Our qualifications are available at the following levels, click on the appropriate link to find out more.

Award

This is a single award which is directly mapped to the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) framework for 'initial contact' work.  It aims to improve general skills and help you gain recognition in your role.  It will raise your confidence and performance in day-to-day tasks.

Are CICM qualifications recognised by the Money Advice Service?

Yes, CICM Money and Debt Advice qualifications have achieved accreditation against the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) Quality framework for Initial Contact, Support Work and Advice Work.  This means that learners who achieve these qualifications will have met recognised benchmark standards for the debt advice industry.

What will I learn?

This award will give you foundation knowledge about General Money and Debt advice.  It will help you understand and implement the principles of best practice.   

What will I gain?

You will gain an Award in Money and Debt Advice and be able to use credit towards further qualifications.  Our structured approach to learning will improve your technical knowledge and teaches useful techniques which can be used daily.  A CICM qualification can increase your earning potential, even while you are still studying.

Who is it for?

New recruits to money and debt advice or more experienced staff who are involved in initial contact or who would like to gain a general understanding of advice work.  As a CICM student, you show employers that you have a commitment to uphold the highest professional standards and to raise personal performance.

Can I get exemptions?

Yes, you can apply for an exemption if you hold a similar award accredited by the Money Advice Service.

Are you eligible for an exemption?

Recognition of prior learning

The CICM accredits prior learning, and learners may apply for an exemption for one or more units if they have passed a relevant subject in an equivalent qualification.  This must be at the same or a higher level.

A request for exemption should be made in writing on registration with the CICM, and be supported by copies of certificates and official confirmation of the subjects or units passed.  It may also be necessary to provide syllabus details so that the Institute can determine the degree of match between the qualifications being considered and its own units.

Examination exemptions will not be awarded for units where a candidate has previously sat and failed that unit in an CICM examination.  Also, only the CICM can advise on eligibility for exemptions.  Exemptions are not valid until the relevant fee has been paid.

For further information please contact [email protected]

 

 

How to get started

1.    Join CICM.

2.    Purchase any reading material and/or register with a learning provider. 

3.    Email the CICM Awarding Body for the assignment and assignment guidance and download the syllabus from the CICM website or Telephone 01780 727272.

4.    Find a coach, who could be a line manager or trainer, to provide feedback on assignments if your learning provider does not offer this service. Run through the assignment guidance together and agree ways of working and deadlines to complete sections of the assignment.

5.    Read the Institute’s monthly Credit Management magazine and keep up-to-date with changes to regulations and current issues. Check regularly news on the CICM website and follow us on Twitter and Linked In.

6.    Join CICM Credit Community LinkedIn group to follow discussions and share thoughts.

Award: General Money and Debt Advice Practice

The unit aims to develop skills in how to provide advice on non-statutory debt solutions and budgeting.  

We recommend you take the Non-statutory Debt Solution and budgeting Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • Enable clients to act on their own behalf
  • Support clients to plan, implement and review action
  • Evaluate and develop own practice

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

Award: General Money and Debt Advice Principles

Summary

This unit aims to develop knowledge of how to provide general money and debt advice.

We recommend you take the General Money and Debt Advice Practice unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • First line money and debt legal advice
  • Support Clients to make use of the advice and guidance service
  • Enable clients to decide whether to use the service
  • Agree with clients their use of the service
  • Identify and provide the information required by clients

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

CICM Study Text

 

Recommended Wider Reading

CPAG (2015) Debt Advice Handbook, Child Poverty Action Group 11th edition ISBN: 9781906076894

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 


 

What are the entry requirements?

We have an 'open entry' policy, which means you do not need any previous qualifications or experience.  However your work will need to involve some debt advice to enable you to complete the practical unit.

 

How long will it take?

The award takes about 3 months to complete.

 

How and where can I study?

CICM does not require you to complete a particular package of learning in order to access the qualification.  You can build your knowledge and skills in a range of ways, including your own in-company training.  The MaPS website details accredited training available to support preparation for the qualifications.  Also you can purchase a CICM study guide for the General Money and Debt Advice Award.

 

Syllabus

Click here to view syllabus.

 

Progression

The next qualification is the CICM Certificate in Money and Debt Advice.

 

Level 3 Certificate in Money & Debt Advice

Level 3 Certificate in Money & Debt Advice

This is our entry level qualification and helps you gain recognition for your role.  The qualification certificates your knowledge and skills in money and debt advice support work.  It will raise your confidence and performance in day-to-day tasks and build your skills ready for study towards the Level 3 Diploma.

Are CICM qualifications recognised by the Money Advice Service?

Yes, CICM Money and Debt Advice qualifications have achieved accreditation against the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) Quality framework for Initial Contact, Support Work and Advice Work.  This means that learners who achieve these qualifications will have met recognised benchmark standards for the debt advice industry.

What will I learn?

You will cover general money and debt advice, debt prioritisation and collections advice and money and debt advice call handling.  It will help you understand and implement the principles of best practice to enhance and optimise day-to-day activities.

What will I gain?

You will gain a Certificate in Money and Debt Advice.  Depending on your results this award will either be at Level 2 or Level 3.  Our structured approach to learning will improve your technical knowledge and teaches useful techniques which can be used daily.  A CICM qualification can increase your earning potential, even while you are still studying.

Who is it for ?

The qualification is for individuals who work in debt support work and wish to raise their profile and prepare for the next level of responsibility.  As a CICM student, you show employers that you have a commitment to uphold the highest professional standards and in raising personal performance.

Can I get exemptions from units?

Yes, you can apply for an exemption if you already hold similar awards accredited by the Money Advice Service.

Are you eligible for an exemption?

Recognition of prior learning

The CICM accredits prior learning, and learners may apply for an exemption for one or more units if they have passed a relevant subject in an equivalent qualification.  This must be at the same or a higher level.

A request for exemption should be made in writing on registration with the CICM, and be supported by copies of certificates and official confirmation of the subjects or units passed.  It may also be necessary to provide syllabus details so that the Institute can determine the degree of match between the qualifications being considered and its own units.

Examination exemptions will not be awarded for units where a candidate has previously sat and failed that unit in an CICM examination.  Also, only the CICM can advise on eligibility for exemptions.  Exemptions are not valid until the relevant fee has been paid.

For further information please contact [email protected]

 

How to get started

How to get started

1.    Join CICM.

2.    Purchase any reading material and/or register with a learning provider. 

3.    Email the CICM Awarding Body for the assignment and assignment guidance and download the syllabus from the CICM website or Telephone 01780 727272.

4.    Find a coach, who could be a line manager or trainer, to provide feedback on assignments if your learning provider does not offer this service. Run through the assignment guidance together and agree ways of working and deadlines to complete sections of the assignment.

5.    Read the Institute’s monthly Credit Management magazine and keep up-to-date with changes to regulations and current issues. Check regularly news on the CICM website and follow us on Twitter and Linked In.

6.    Join CICM Credit Community LinkedIn group to follow discussions and share thoughts.

Award: Debt Prioritisation and Collection Process Advice Practice

This unit aims to develop skills in debt prioritisation and the collections process.

We recommend you take the Debt Prioritisation and Collection Process Advice Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

1. Be able to advise people on how to prioritise their debts
2. Be able to advise people on common debt collection processes
3. Be able to reflect on their delivery of debt prioritisation and collections process advice.

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 

Award: Debt Prioritisation and Collection Process Advice Principles

Summary

This unit aims to develop knowledge of how to provide advice on debt prioritisation and the collections process.  

We recommend you take the Debt Prioritisation and Collection Process Advice Practice unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

1. Understand how to help people prioritise their debt.
2. Understand how to advise people on common debt collection processes.

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 

 

Award: Money and Debt Advice Call Handling Practice

Summary

This unit aims to develop skills in negotiation and money and debt advice call handling.  

We recommend you take the Money and Debt Advice Call Handling Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • First line money and debt legal advice
  • Develop and manage interviews with clients
  • Enable clients to take up referral procedures
  • Negotiate on behalf of clients
  • Exchange offers on behalf of clients
  • Establish an agreement for clients
  • Evaluate and develop own practice

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

Award: Money and Debt Advice Call Handling Principles

Summary

This unit aims to develop knowledge of negotiation and money and debt advice call handling.

We recommend you take the money and Debt Advice Call Handling Practice unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee

Syllabus Topics

  • Understand how to develop and manage interviews which relate to money and debt advice.
  • Understand how to handle a variety of difficult money and debt advice calls.
  • Understand how to handle caller complaints in relation to money and debt advice.
  • Understand how to negotiate when providing money and debt advice.

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

 

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 

Award: General Money and Debt Advice Practice

The unit aims to develop skills in how to provide advice on non-statutory debt solutions and budgeting.  

We recommend you take the Non-statutory Debt Solution and budgeting Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • Enable clients to act on their own behalf
  • Support clients to plan, implement and review action
  • Evaluate and develop own practice

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

Award: General Money and Debt Advice Principles

Summary

This unit aims to develop knowledge of how to provide general money and debt advice.

We recommend you take the General Money and Debt Advice Practice unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • First line money and debt legal advice
  • Support Clients to make use of the advice and guidance service
  • Enable clients to decide whether to use the service
  • Agree with clients their use of the service
  • Identify and provide the information required by clients

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

CICM Study Text

 

Recommended Wider Reading

CPAG (2015) Debt Advice Handbook, Child Poverty Action Group 11th edition ISBN: 9781906076894

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 

 

What are the entry requirements?

We have an 'open entry' policy, which means you do not need previous qualifications or experience.  However your work will need to involve money and debt advice work to enable you to complete the practice units.

 

How long will it take?

The Certificate takes about 6-12 months to complete.

 

How and where can I study?

CICM does not require you to complete a particular package of learning in order to access the qualification.  You can build your knowledge and skills in a range of ways, including your own in-company training.  The MaPS website details accredited training available to support preparation for the qualifications.  Also you can purchase the CICM study guide for Money and Debt advice.

 

Syllabus

Click here to view syllabus.

 

Progression

The next qualification is the Level 3 Diploma in Money and Debt Advice.  Completing this qualification means you can use the letters ACICM after your name (if your membership is current). 

 

Level 3 Diploma in Money & Debt Advice ACICM(Dip)

Level 3 Diploma in Money & Debt Advice ACICM(Dip)

This qualification links to the National Occupational Standards (NOS) of the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) framework for those delivering debt advice.  The Diploma demonstrates expertise and detailed knowledge in Money and Debt Advice.  It establishes the level of competency required for general debt advice roles such as Money and Debt Advice Advisors on the MaPS framework.

What will I learn?

This level will give you in-depth knowledge about broad areas of Money and Debt Advice.  It will help you understand and implement the principles of best practice to enhance and optimise day-to-day activities.   

What will I gain?

You will gain a Diploma in Money and Debt Advice and depending on your results, this will either be at Level 2 or Level 3.  If you gain a Level 3 Diploma in Money and Debt Advice, you will be upgraded to Associate Membership of the CICM and eligible to use the letters ACICM after your name, whilst in current membership.  Our structured approach to learning will improve your technical knowledge and teaches useful techniques which can be used daily.  A CICM qualification can increase your earning potential, even while you are still studying.

Who is it for?

Individuals who work in debt advice and wish to raise their profile and prepare for the next level of responsibility for example a debt advice team leader, trainer or manager.  It is for those who wish to show employers a commitment to uphold the highest professional standards and in raising personal performance.

Can I get exemptions from units?

Yes, you can apply for an exemption if you hold similar awards accredited by the Money Advice Service.

Are you eligible for an exemption?

Recognition of prior learning

The CICM accredits prior learning, and learners may apply for an exemption for one or more units if they have passed a relevant subject in an equivalent qualification.  This must be at the same or a higher level.

A request for exemption should be made in writing on registration with the CICM, and be supported by copies of certificates and official confirmation of the subjects or units passed.  It may also be necessary to provide syllabus details so that the Institute can determine the degree of match between the qualifications being considered and its own units.

Examination exemptions will not be awarded for units where a candidate has previously sat and failed that unit in an CICM examination.  Also, only the CICM can advise on eligibility for exemptions.  Exemptions are not valid until the relevant fee has been paid.

For further information please contact [email protected]

 

How to get started

How to get started

1.    Join CICM.

2.    Purchase any reading material and/or register with a learning provider. 

3.    Email the CICM Awarding Body for the assignment and assignment guidance and download the syllabus from the CICM website or Telephone 01780 727272.

4.    Find a coach, who could be a line manager or trainer, to provide feedback on assignments if your learning provider does not offer this service. Run through the assignment guidance together and agree ways of working and deadlines to complete sections of the assignment.

5.    Read the Institute’s monthly Credit Management magazine and keep up-to-date with changes to regulations and current issues. Check regularly news on the CICM website and follow us on Twitter and Linked In.

6.    Join CICM Credit Community LinkedIn group to follow discussions and share thoughts.

Award: Debt Prioritisation and Collection Process Advice Practice

This unit aims to develop skills in debt prioritisation and the collections process.

We recommend you take the Debt Prioritisation and Collection Process Advice Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

1. Be able to advise people on how to prioritise their debts
2. Be able to advise people on common debt collection processes
3. Be able to reflect on their delivery of debt prioritisation and collections process advice.

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 

Award: Debt Prioritisation and Collection Process Advice Principles

Summary

This unit aims to develop knowledge of how to provide advice on debt prioritisation and the collections process.  

We recommend you take the Debt Prioritisation and Collection Process Advice Practice unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

1. Understand how to help people prioritise their debt.
2. Understand how to advise people on common debt collection processes.

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 

 

Award: Non-statutory Debt Solution and budgeting practice

Summary

The unit aims to develop skills in how to provide advice on non-statutory debt solutions and budgeting.  

We recommend you take the Non-statutory Debt Solution and budgeting Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • Enable clients to act on their own behalf
  • Support clients to plan, implement and review action
  • Evaluate and develop own practice

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

Award: Statutory Debt Solutions Advice Principles

Summary

This unit aims to develop knowledge of how to provide advice on statutory debt solutions.

We recommend you take the Statutory Debt Solutions Advice Principles Practice unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • Key areas of the legislative framework relating to consumer credit and debt in your jurisdiction
  • What situations could constitute an emergency for clients in relation to their debts and money management 
  • Types of emergency action that can be taken in particular circumstances 
  • Procedures for debt recovery through the courts and possible consequences of non-compliance with court proceedings 
  • Possible defences in relation to debt 

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

Award: Statutory Debt Solutions Advice Practice

Summary

This unit aims to develop skills in statutory debt solutions advice.  

We recommend you take the Statutory Debt Solutions Advice Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • First line money and debt legal advice
  • Enable clients to act on their own behalf
  • Evaluate and develop own practice

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

Award: Money and Debt Advice Call Handling Practice

Summary

This unit aims to develop skills in negotiation and money and debt advice call handling.  

We recommend you take the Money and Debt Advice Call Handling Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • First line money and debt legal advice
  • Develop and manage interviews with clients
  • Enable clients to take up referral procedures
  • Negotiate on behalf of clients
  • Exchange offers on behalf of clients
  • Establish an agreement for clients
  • Evaluate and develop own practice

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

Award: Money and Debt Advice Call Handling Principles

Summary

This unit aims to develop knowledge of negotiation and money and debt advice call handling.

We recommend you take the money and Debt Advice Call Handling Practice unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee

Syllabus Topics

  • Understand how to develop and manage interviews which relate to money and debt advice.
  • Understand how to handle a variety of difficult money and debt advice calls.
  • Understand how to handle caller complaints in relation to money and debt advice.
  • Understand how to negotiate when providing money and debt advice.

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

 

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 

Award: General Money and Debt Advice Practice

The unit aims to develop skills in how to provide advice on non-statutory debt solutions and budgeting.  

We recommend you take the Non-statutory Debt Solution and budgeting Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • Enable clients to act on their own behalf
  • Support clients to plan, implement and review action
  • Evaluate and develop own practice

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

Award: General Money and Debt Advice Principles

Summary

This unit aims to develop knowledge of how to provide general money and debt advice.

We recommend you take the General Money and Debt Advice Practice unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • First line money and debt legal advice
  • Support Clients to make use of the advice and guidance service
  • Enable clients to decide whether to use the service
  • Agree with clients their use of the service
  • Identify and provide the information required by clients

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

CICM Study Text

 

Recommended Wider Reading

CPAG (2015) Debt Advice Handbook, Child Poverty Action Group 11th edition ISBN: 9781906076894

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 

Award: Court Procedures and Enforcement Advice Practice

Summary

This unit aims to develop skills in Court procedures and enforcement advice.  

We recommend you take the Court Procedures and Enforcement Advice Principles unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • First line money and debt legal advice
  • Enable clients to act on their own behalf
  • Support clients to plan, implement and review action
  • Evaluate and develop own practice
  • Identify self-development needs

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

Award: Court Procedures and Enforcement Advice Principles

Summary

This unit aims to develop knowledge of how to provide advice on Court procedures and methods of enforcement.  

We recommend you take the Court Procedures and Enforcement Advice Practice unit at the same time as by submitting both assignments together you only pay one assessment fee.

Syllabus Topics

  • First line money and debt legal advice
  • Enable clients to act on their own behalf
  • Support clients to plan, implement and review action

Assessment

Written Assignment

Date: Submission in Jan, June or Oct

Pass Marks

30 to 49% Level 2 Pass, >50% Level 3 Pass

 

What are the entry requirements?

We have an 'open entry' policy which means you do not need any previous qualifications.  Your work will need to involve money and debt advice to enable you to complete the practice units.

 

How long will it take?

The qualification will take an additional 12 months following completion of the Certificate in Money and Debt Advice.        

 

How and where can I study?

CICM does not require you to complete a particular package of learning in order to access the qualification.  You can build your knowledge and skills in a range of ways, including your own in-company training.  The MaPS website details accredited training available to support preparation for the qualifications.   Also you can purchase the CICM study guide for Money and Debt advice.

 

Syllabus

Click here to view syllabus.

 

Progression

The next step is to take counselling, coaching or management courses.

 

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