The AQS is the only sector-owned, independently-assessed standard focussing on advice giving.
The Advice Quality Standard (AQS) is an established and widely respected quality mark for the advice sector in England and Wales. Since 2012, nearly a thousand services – large and small – have completed its rigorous assessment process, helping to build a sector where quality is valued and visible.
To achieve the AQS, services are assessed against a set of criteria. Once awarded, they are reassessed every two years to ensure standards are maintained. The AQS continually evolves to respond to changes in advice provision, including technological advances and shifting societal needs.
The AQS gives services a validation of their work and practical recommendations for improvement. It gives funders assurance about the quality of the advice services they support.
Our partner, Recognising Excellence, administers the AQS on our behalf. To arrange an audit, please contact them.
Whether you are local or national, give broad social welfare legal advice or specialise in one area, the AQS could give you and your funders assurance about the quality of your service, and help you develop your service.
Find out more about the AQS including who it is for and how it is managed. Find out how to apply for the AQS, as well as how much it costs, the process and how long it takes.
For any questions about the Advice Quality Standard or the organisations holding the AQS, please contact Lindsey Poole of the Advice Services Alliance.
Email: director@asauk.org.uk
Phone: 07904 377 460
If you are awarding grants to advice-giving organisations, you may be looking for a quality mark before you award a grant, or are considering covering the cost of the AQS as part of your funding.
Our information for funders page has all the information you need.
Every month, the AQS is awarded to local and national advice-giving organsations across England and Wales. We are proud to re-accredit so many holders and give awards for the first time.
Meet the latest AQS new awards and reaccreditations.
