Referral happens in the provision of information, advice and guidance for learning and work, when another colleague or organisation offers services that more closely meet a user's needs.

Referral may be for IAG learning provision or work experience.

Effective referral requires staff to have knowledge of the user and their needs and up to date information about the proposed provider.

The nextstep Northumberland Directory contains updated information on Network Organisations underpinning the referral procedure.

All partners in the network will agree to refer users onto other partners where the needs of the user can be best met elsewhere.

Network members may use their own referral systems provided they comply with national quality standard for information service and guidance services, and are compatible with the network's referral policy.

Members of the network without their own referral procedure should use the network procedure.

Members of the network will ensure that all users are given equal access to all providers regardless of sex, race or disability.

All referral will take place with reference to current legislative requirements including: The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, The Sex Discrimination Act 1975, The Race Relations Act 1976, The Data Protection Acts 1984 and 1998, The Human Rights Act 1998.

When dealing with referrals under contracts with another organisation (third party), organisations should ensure that users' needs are paramount throughout the process. If a third party contract is with an employer, advisers will check that any referrals to employment opportunities match the needs of the user. If it is in the user's best interests to access another service, advisers should seek agreement with the third party contract holder without breaking confidentiality.

Network colleagues referring users will work to the ENTO competences framework.