At the SIAA AGM in November 2024, we launched the SIAA Learning Hub, a centralised space to support the independent advocacy sector. This initiative responds to members’ requests for core learning resources and aims to improve consistency in training across Scotland.
To ensure the sustainable financing of the Learning Hub, the SIAA Board has recommended a full cost recovery model. As highlighted to members at the AGM, this approach would distribute the Learning Hub’s costs across the membership, enabling its continued development and access to core learning. This cost structure will take effect from April 2026. Until then, SIAA invites members to explore the platform and its learning resources at no cost, offering them a valuable opportunity to influence its direction and development.
Recognising that some members may face financial constraints, SIAA is actively exploring ways to support those with limited income in accessing the platform. Various options are being considered to ensure inclusivity and equitable access to learning opportunities.
Why We Created the SIAA Learning Hub
SIAA-developed core learning has been a frequent request from the membership. Its importance is further highlighted by the Scottish Mental Health Law Review recommendations for consistent learning across independent advocacy, and funders and commissioners requesting evidence of the training independent advocates go through. Members themselves have identified inconsistencies in training provision across Scotland, which was further evidenced in the learning survey SIAA team carried out in 2023. Based on the input from 27 organisations, 70% would like SIAA to provide core training on independent advocacy. This is despite the majority of them already providing in-house and external training for their staff and volunteers. Notably, some organisations struggle to provide training to their staff or with the capacity to join training, highlighting the need for more accessible and consistent training provision for independent advocacy across Scotland.
Benefits of the Learning Hub and Collaborative Approach
In response to the membership requests and strategic direction from SIAA’s Board (which consists mostly of the member organisations), we decided to establish the Learning Hub. Tailored learning for independent advocacy, peer learning opportunities, compliance training and sign-posting to external resources would act as tools for creating a thriving hub for learning for independent advocacy, similarly to Turas for NHS. Providing these opportunities from one central place allows members to evidence consistent high-quality learning across Scotland, enhancing the overall standard of independent advocacy.
To ensure its success, we need the membership’s collaboration and investment in its development, making it beneficial for every organisation. We are grateful for all organisations who have already supported us in the development of the ‘Introduction to Independent Advocacy’ course and the ‘Mental Health Act’ course.
To complement online independent learning, we will work closely with member organisations to align the learning with internal learning needs and provision, and provide opportunities for webinar, in-person learning and peer learning opportunities. We have especially seen positive feedback from peer support sessions that provide mutual support across Scotland.
What This Means for SIAA Membership
To ensure the Learning Hub’s sustainability, the Board recommended a full cost recovery model (see the figure below), with costs divided among the membership (excluding tier 1 members), which was presented at the AGM in November 2024.
This approach would allow for a more sustainable financing model of the Hub and future opportunities for independent advocacy. Note that the full cost identified was calculated in November 2024 and is subject to change based on inflation or larger user numbers.
The outlined costs are as follows:
- Platform cost for 500 users £6,366, however, to meet the full membership it would likely increase to 1000 users = £8,500.
- Authoring tools (learning development tools) enable SIAA to have ownership over the learning developed £3,330
- Content development cost allows the platform to grow and provide more specialist training by using external experts (for example working with Sandra Macdonald) and consultant in developing learning £8,600
- Support costs to the learning hub, which includes an extra day of staffing per week (3 days of the L&D officer are paid by SIAA), travel and IT support £7500
- With a total cost of the platform at the time of it being calculated in November £26,000 divided by 32 organisations = £750 per organisation
- This cost excludes accreditation costs, which will need to be looked at separately.
During the AGM we were delighted by the participants overwhelming acceptance of the Learning Hub and the cost scenario. The feedback outlined the positive impact the learning hub could have on independent advocacy, concerns over fairness and the wish to support the development of the platform.
‘’Risk of initial duplication of time and cost for existing staff who have already done equivalent training on another platform’’
‘’It improves the standing and reputation of SIAA and the membership’’
‘’It could support collaboration and cooperation across the sector’’
To ensure that the Learning Hub is a valuable tool for the membership, we are running a testing phase of the platform and included learning throughout this financial year, during which we invite each organisation to go through the platform on-boarding process. You will receive your invitation for the on-boarding in due course. Due to the testing nature of the work, SIAA is covering the cost of the platform for the first year, until the end of March 2026. From April 2026 there will be a fee to access the learning hub. Although the initial recommendation for the annual fee per member organisation was approximately £750, the final decision is yet to be made. We want to communicate this early to give members time to adjust to the costs and familiarise themselves with the platform.
We hope this temporary free access will encourage members to actively participate in the development of the Learning Hub and the courses included. This will help to ensure the platform will become a thriving hub for high quality independent advocacy in Scotland.
Note that the learning hub is a long-term financial and time investment, which will act as an invaluable resource for continuous professional development and excellence in independent advocacy. If you are concerned about the future fees, please get in touch with us by emailing enquiry@siaa.org.uk.
*This piece has been edited using AI
