YouthLink Scotland Participative Democracy Certificate (SCQF Level 5)

Why this award?

The Participative Democracy Certificate (PDC) is an award that provides accreditation to young people actively involved in decision-making in groups. It gives participants the opportunity to acknowledge and develop communication, decision-making and participation in the context of democratic engagement. The local delivery team must include staff with following experience and skill set; - CLD/Youth Worker who has experience of delivering training, - An experienced assessor - Group Worker - One independent person who could act as an internal moderator to insure consistency of standards.

Who is it for?

The PDC is available for young people involved in decision making groups but must be delivered by/or in partnership with a member of staff who has youth work or CLD experience.

YouthLink members receive 20 free PDC Awards for young people each year, after the 20 places have been allocated it is £10 +VAT per young person for members. Non-members of YouthLink Scotland pay £12 +VAT per participant, regardless of the number going through the Award.

What time commitment is required?

The programme of activity should contain the following components which equate to 20 hours in total:

• 4 hours of research undertaken independently by each young person and a presentation on research findings
• 6 hours of training of specific skills such as communication, setting ground rules, decision making, working in groups,
• 8 hours of recorded decision making meetings
• 2 hours of reflection by young people

Is the award externally accredited?

The Participative Democracy Certificate is worth 2 Credits at SCQF Level 5 and constitutes 20 hours of learning.

YouthLink Scotland are responsible for the external quality assurance

Case study: PDC and Carers Trust Scotland