1. in county durham
The Advice Network
Better Together Conference

2. Welcome Sam Scotchbrook Network Development Officer
Advice in County Durham
Website:
Facebook:

3. About the network
A partnership of information, advice and support providers in County Durham
Aims to improve the access to and quality of advice in the county
No wrong door ethos
Made up of over 140 services
Two posts funded by CACD and DCC
Networking and training opportunities
Sharing of information and resources

4. Achievements Large and diverse network of services
Includes emergency services, GP practices, voluntary and community sector providers, County Council and MPs offices
Universal Credit Conference
Stanley advice hub
Networking Events; new referral relationships
Multiple communications methods with the network
Advice Events
215 people received training this year so far

5. In Development
New engagement from GP practices. Opportunities to build relationships between advice sector and primary care services
New engagement from MPs offices
Universal Credit
Possible three tiered training programme in development for 2018:
Two day advanced, one day introduction, half day basics
Research and campaigns
2018 networking and training programme
New website

6. Referral Opportunities
Secure online referral system

7. Referrals
2883 referrals have been sent through the portal in the last 12 months
Traffic is double what it was in its first year
Allows you to refer to 59 services (see referral catalogue)
Can attach documents without filling mailboxes
Easy to use and secure
Improved communication between users
Clear audit trail
Further development in pipeline

8. Training Progressive training programme At least one session per month
Free
Benefits training delivered by DCC Welfare Rights
Universal Credit
2018 schedule pending

9. Any Questions?