AdviceUK calls for a National Advice Workforce Strategy with new report
- Oct 24
- 3 min read
AdviceUK launches a new report during Advice Week which highlights the impact of advice and calls for a National Advice Workforce Strategy to ensure a sustainable future for the sector. Leyre Jimenez from Advice UK shares more information in a press release:
'Staff shortages undermine access to life-saving free, independent advice
AdviceUK today published a landmark report cautioning that staff shortages threaten to undermine the free and independent advice sector, which millions who are most in need in our society rely on. With the cost-of-living crisis and the current strain on the welfare system, advice services are the first line of support for many, but services struggle to meet the skyrocketing demand. It is the latest in a string of concerns raised by advice services and AdviceUK, their membership body, about the dire pressures facing the sector.
Based on the experiences of AdviceUK members and a literature review, the report paints a deeply concerning picture of an advice sector that is at a breaking point. Advice services offer a lifeline, providing essential advice, support, and solutions to millions of people each year on a diverse range of issues, including welfare benefits, debt, housing, immigration, and health. However, the report reveals that despite their crucial role, they are under intense strain across Britain: demand for free, independent advice in 2024–2025 was 40% higher than the 2018–2022 average (1).
Despite the drastic increase in individuals and families seeking free and independent advice, almost all organisations (88%) report major recruitment and retention difficulties (2), with the average advice service needing three more advisers to meet demand, while losing three staff or volunteers in the past year (3). Advice services fear they won’t be able to meet the needs of those turning to them for support, with only one in ten feeling extremely confident they have the resources to operate beyond the next year (4).
The advice workforce crisis is among the top three issues currently affecting the sector (5). It is driven by ongoing funding insecurity, which contributes to lower salaries and short-term contracts across much of the sector. The solution is obvious – clear entry routes, high-quality training, and improved funding. With this, advice can be a rewarding, attractive career, bringing in people from every background and giving them reasons to stay.'
'AdviceUK will write to the relevant ministers in the UK, Scottish, and Welsh governments to share the report’s recommendations for tackling the workforce crisis and securing the future of these vital organisations. The strategies should include:
Jobs & careers service pathway – taking advantage of the merger between Jobcentre Plus and the National Careers Service in England and Wales, and collaboration between Jobcentre Plus and Skills Development Scotland or Skills for Wales, establishing a clear route from pre-employment preparation to paid roles.
Marketing and careers promotion to attract new entrants.
Advice Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) to bring together jobseekers and advice agencies in local areas and provide short work placements.
Joined-up training offer to coordinate and promote existing training opportunities.
Expansion of advice-sector apprenticeships, funded via the UK-wide Growth & Skills Levy, with simple support for small charities to access providers.
Support for advice agencies to participate in employment programmes, such as supervision funding or leadership development resources.
The report was launched as part of AdviceUK’s #AdviceSaves campaign.'
The full press release can be found on the AdviceUK website.
Comments