Introduction

The Credit Services Association (CSA) is the official body for the debt collection industry and with a history dating back more than 100 years, the CSA is constantly evolving to meet the demands of a modern-day challenging regulat ory, compliance and economic business environment.

It is with great pleasure to announce the development of this Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management for the Debt Collection Indust ry, which has been created by the CSA for its members and is accredited through our awarding organisation partner: NOCN and approved as a qualification by Ofqual.

This Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management prospectus lists the four accredited learning modules which clearly explains the intended learning aims and objectives for each unit of study, and what the delegate will achieve upon successful completion.

Upon the successful completion of this Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management, both the business and the student will be able to proficiently demonstrate to the regulator that a compliance function consists of the relevant technical knowledge, skills and expertise in its application to a professional standard.

Registering your interest or enrolling on t his Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management could not be easier, simply contact Luke Sculthorp, Business Development Manager at the CSA;

Email: luke.sculthorp@csa-uk.com,

Tel: +44 (0) 191 217 3079

Luke can provide you with further details or advice regarding any of the individual tra ining courses, programmes of study or type of qualification that you are interested in. Alternatively you can email us at: train i ng@csa-u k.com.

Qualification overview

This NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management for the Debt Collection Industry (QCF) has been created by the Credit Services Association (CSA) and accredited through our awarding organisation partner NOCN. This accreditation process is in-line with requirements set by the qualifications regulators in England (Ofqual), Wales (DCELLS) and Northern Ireland (CCEA) and is part of the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF).

This Learning Guide and Syllabus provides employers and learners with everything they need to know about this qualification, which includes an overview regarding the expected learning outcomes and assessment criteria that learners will be expected to achieve in order to pass this qualification.

The National Occupational Standards (NOS) and the Financial and Legal Skills Partnership (FLSP), the Sector Skills Council for our industry has been considered and mapped against the development of these units of study.

Qualification aim

This NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management for the Debt Collection Industry (QCF) examines the role of the compliance officer, the implications of compliance risk for businesses and how the organisation can demonstrate its compliance controls to the regulators. It explores the importance of compliance assessment and business risk strategies. You will learn about measures and techniques for analysing and addressing compliance. The unit also examines how effective compliance risk management supports the debt collection activities of the organisation.

Ofqual

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is the regulator of qualifications and is an independent non-ministerial government department accountable to Parliament Ofqual has been the regulator of all approved qualifications, examinations and assessments in England since 2009. Together with its partner regulators in Wales (DCELLS) and Northern Ireland (CCEA), Ofqual is responsible for the regulation of the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF).

NOCN

NOCN is a leading UK awarding organisation, offering high quality, flexible, credit-based qualifications and is accredited by the Regulatory Authorities in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. NOCN qualifications are delivered through further education and sixth form colleges, universities and higher education institutions, trade unions, TUC education, employers, local education authorities, training organisations, adult and community education centres, and voluntary community organisations.

National Occupational Standards

National Occupational Standards (NOS) are defined by the UK Commission for Employment and Skil ls as: describing what a person needs to do and understand in their job to carry out their role in a consistent and competent way NOS define the knowledge and performance criteria against which competencies are assessed.

Financial & Legal Skills Partnership

The Financial and Legal Skills Partnership (FLSP) is the government-licensed Sector Skills Council (SSC) that is proactively involved in supporting the development of a skilled workforce in the UK's financial, legal and accountancy sectors. The FLSP is also a charity, which is focussed on developing skills-based solutions to help support and sustain a commercially-dynamic industry.

About this Qualification

This NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management for the Debt Collection Industry (QCF) has been designed as a standalone qualification or provides a progression route for learners that have previously completed the CSA Level 3 Diploma for the Debt Collection Industry. This qualification is an industry recognised qualification that offers proof of knowledge and the skills required to function as a proficient professional compliance officer or a person with the key responsibility for compliance with in an organisation that is involved in the recovery of consumer, commercial or utility debt.

This Diploma qualification has been approved for use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Entry Requirements

It is the employer's or sponsor's responsibility to ensure that the learner has been appropriately identified and selected to take this qualification. Any identified learning needs should be communicated to the CSA at the time of enrolment so we can provide any additional support or accommodate any specific development needs of the student.

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. However, the CSA recommends that potential students should have a minimum of a level 4 qualification or equivalent work experience within the business.

The content and level of demand of this qualification is broadly equivalent to a foundation degree in the area of business management. Therefore, given the complexity of some of the content we believe that students will not have sufficient knowledge or experience below the age of 19.

Equal Opportunities Statement

The Credit Services Association and NOCN do not discriminate against any learner on the grounds of race, gender, disability, re ligious beliefs, or role within any member organisation. If any learner has been diagnosed with any type of disability that may impact on the successful completion of the NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management for the Debt Col lection Industry (QCF), CSA and NOCN should be informed so that they can accommodate any special requirements or needs.

Qualification Review Date

All qualifications on the OCF have review dates and expiry dates. This NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management for the Debt Collection Industry (QCF) will be reviewed on 31/03/2019 and the process for this review will start approximately 18 months prior to this date. However, due to the nature of this sector and the legislative framework that the Debt Collection Industry must adhere to, any unit of study may be amended to reflect new developments or changes in regulatory requirements If this is the case then we will set a new date. Equally, if a decision is made to withdraw a unit we will, in partnership with NOCN, undertake a review and set a new review date.

Assessment

National standards and rigorous quality assurance are maintained by the use of assessments. Each unit of study with in this NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Compliance Risk Management for the Debt Collection Industry (QCF) will be holistically assessed by appropriate assessment methods, which are to be marked by nominated CSA professional tutors. Quality assurance is monitored internally by the CSA Diploma Steering Group and externally by NOCN verification systems, to ensure that national standards are maintained.

All assessments will be graded as a Referral or Pass. If a student is 'referred' for an assignment and does not meet the assessment requ irement following a second submission then they w il l have the opportunity to retake the assessment at an additional cost within a given timeframe from referral notification. The student has the right to appeal against any decisions as outlined in the referral policy. 

If the student does not submit assessments within the allotted deadline then a referral grade will be given. However, the student can apply for 'Extenuating Circumstances' for the mitigation panel to consider (this form can be obtained by contacting the CSA Diploma Team) The CSA defines extenuating circumstances as:

"Significant, unforeseen personal or operational business matters that result in a major impact on a learner's ability to complete, or submit an assessment within the allotted time frame."

Learners will be expected to submit all assessments in a word processed format using the Harvard Referencing method. In structions on how to use this referencing system will be provided in a study pack

Assessment Methods

Achievement at level 5 reflects the ability to identify and use theoretical and technical understanding, methods and ski lls to address problems that are well defined but complex and non-routine. It includes taking responsibility for overall courses of action as well as exercising autonomy and judgement within fairly broad parameters. It also reflects understanding of different perspectives or approaches within an area of study or work.

Unit 1

A single 3 hour unseen examination. Candidates are required to answer FOUR questions, and to conform to any rubric on the paper. The examination will be assessed on a numeric scale from 0 to 100. In order to pass the learner must obtain a mark of 70 and meet all the assessment criteria

Assessment Method

Examination

Unit 2

Assignment based assessment set by the CSA delivered and marked by the tutor/assessor, along with entries into a reflective journal.

Assessment Method

Assignment

Unit 3

A collection of evidence used to show competence or knowledge. This can be in any chosen format e.g . paper based or electronically created and stored etc.

Assessment Method

Portfolio of Evidence

Unit 4

The project will be described in the 'Project Brief' and will be work focused to allow the learner to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and application regarding the key aspects of developing a Compliance Risk Strategy for a business, or within the learner's area of responsibility.

The word count for this must be a minimum of 10,000 - 15,000 words, although learners may complete a larger, more in-depth piece of work if this is appropriate.

Assessment Method

Project

The Legal and Regulatory Framework that Governs Debt Collection

Introduction

This unit is designed to provide the student with an in -depth knowledge and understanding regarding the importance of the legal and regulatory framework that governs the recovery of debt. On completion of this unit the student will have analysed a number of key legal aspects in relation to the debt collection industry and will be able to conclude how regulatory controls impact on the organisation's business activities.

Aims

The aim of this unit is to enable the learner to develop a comprehensive understanding of the legal and regulatory framework and how this impacts on various sectors of the debt collection industry.

The learner will develop in-depth knowledge of the legal and regulatory frameworks which define the industry.

Learning outcomes

• Interpret key events that have shaped the legal and regulatory framework
• Understand how the EU influences the UK legal and regulatory framework
• Evaluate the wider role of the regulator in relation to an organisation
• Review and report on the enforcement powers of the regulator and the impact of non-compliance

Training methods

This is delivered through a number of classroom tutorials and students will be encouraged to participate in discussions and debates to explore and enhance their current knowledge, understanding and working practices of the legal and regulatory framework that impacts and influences the debt collection industry. Students will be provided with a number of hand-outs and case studies focused on the core learning concepts.

The Role of a Compliance Officer within a Debt Collection Business

Introduction

This unit is focused on the key role and responsibilities of a compliance officer and how to manage the regulatory constraints imposed on an organisation operating in the debt collection industry. The student will examine the intertwined relationship between compliance and risk in a business context and how business ethics can reflect a corporate culture of compliance.

Aims

The aim of this unit is to enable the learner to critically examine the essential role and responsibilities of a compliance officer and how the regulatory framework influences those business activities of an organisation involved in the recovery of debt from a sectorial perspective.

Learning outcomes

• Understand the role and key responsibilities of a compliance officer in a debt collection business
• Assess the interrelationship between compliance and risk
• Understand how business ethics can reflect a corporate culture of compliance
• Understand key compliance factors for managing external relationships

Training methods

This is delivered through a number of classroom tutorials and practical workshops that will explore the key role and responsibilities of a compliance officer. During the learning sessions the student will also investigate the practical relationship between compliance risk and business ethics. Students will be provided with different types of learning materials designed to support the core learning concepts.

Monitoring Compliance for a Debt Collection Business

Introduction

This unit investigates different methods and controls for monitoring the effectiveness of compliance within the business. Throughout this module the student will gain a deeper understanding of the independent relationship between compliance and the audit function and business techniques for measuring performance

Aims

The essential aim for this unit is to enable the learner to examine and analyse appropriate business tools for monitoring the effectiveness of compliance within the organisation and investigate the type of preventative and corrective action that can be implemented to ensure compliance with regulations. The learner will also critically review the underpinning relationship between compliance and the audit function.

Learning outcomes

• Understand key business parameters for monitoring compliance
• Analyse the relationship between compliance and the audit function
• Understand 'Root Cause Analysis' methodology
• Assess appropriate methods for measuring the effectiveness of compliance to reduce business risk

Training methods

This is delivered through a number of classroom tutorials and debates that are designed for the student to reflect in detail on their current working practices and review the organisations compliance procedures and processes. During each session the classroom activities will centre on the practical application involved in monitoring the effectiveness of compliance within the workplace, including understanding 'Root Cause Analysis' methodology. Students will be provided with a number of practical samples and different types of learning materials designed to support the core learning concepts.

Developing a Compliance Strategy for a Debt Collection Business

Introduction

This unit is designed to provide the organisation with a compliance strategy, which requires evidence for 'buy-in' from the business. Throughout this learning module the student will explore the key elements required to create an effective strategic compliance plan for the organisation and how this strategy can be implemented, monitored and reviewed.

Aims

The aim of this unit is to bring together the learning outcomes from the previous modules of study and provide the learner with further depth of knowledge in relation to managing compliance risk for the development of a strategic plan that can be embedded within the organisation. Upon completion of this unit, the learner will be able to demonstrate a strategy for managing compliance risk and the organisation can provide evidence of its compliance controls to the relevant regulators. clients and consumers.

Learning outcomes

• Assess key elements for devising an effective compliance strategy for an organisation
• Analyse the financial impact of compliance on an organisation
• Create a compliance strategy for an organisation
• Implement a compliance strategy for an organisation
• Construct performance systems that will monitor and review the effectiveness of the compliance strategy

Training methods

This is delivered through a number of classroom tutorials and seminars designed to support the student in creating a creditable compliance strategy for the business. Throughout this final module the student will investigate how to create, implement, monitor and review an on-going compliance strategy for the business. Students will be provided with different types of learning materials designed to support the core learning concepts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q) What is this Level 5 Diploma equivalent too?

A) In England. Wales and Northern Ireland we have an 8 level qualification framework, therefore any Level 5 accredited qualification is equivalent to a foundation degree or an HND. To put this into context: Level 6 = Honours Degree Level 7 = Masters Level 8 = PHD.

Q) How long does it take to complete the Level 5 Diploma?

A) This is a fu ll12 month course with one monthly classroom session. However, by the time the student completes the final project it may take longer as it is not expected of learners to submit the compliance strategy within the first 12 months- getting the plan right for the business is equally important. Therefore this qualification, in reality, may take up to 14 months to complete.

Q) As an employer, how many additional hours of study will the student have to put into the course?

A) This is difficult to define. Excluding the classroom sessions, the student will be expected to do a considerable amount of external research and we also recommend a reading list. However, this qualification is equally designed to be a considerable benefit for the business and therefore the majority of the additional activit ies should simply complement or be embedded into the individual's daily workload.

Q) What happens if a student fails the exam?

A) As with all the assessments, if a student does not manage to atta in the minimum grade to pass the examination then we will offer an alternative examination that can be re-taken at a pre-defined time throughout the course. This principle is t he same for all assessments and we will offer as much support as possible to ensure that the student 'passes' the course overall.

Q) What happens if a student cannot make a classroom session?

A) We understand t hat students may be unable to attend a classroom session whether this is due to a business commitment or annual leave etc. Therefore, if a student misses a session then we can forward all the information and learning materials to the student, followed up with a 1-2-1 call if required Either way we will ensure that students are kept up-to-date.

Q) How will this qualification make a student more competent in their role?

A) Students will gain a great deal from this course and also the organisation will get the opportunity to rev iew all of its current compliance practices. More importantly students w ill gain a more indepth knowledge regardi ng the regulator, whilst demonstrating that they are a competent and highly skil led professional expert in the field of compliance