Qualification structure is a competency-based level 3 award. This means that those registering for it must demonstrate their skills and knowledge in undertaking a range of advocacy-specific activities in their workplace. 

The qualification is made up of four units, which focus on the 'core' requirements for advocacy assessed at level 3, and several specialist units assessed at level 4.  The different levels recognise a learner's ability to perform tasks to these standards and demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and awareness of the tasks and consequences.

Units can be taken in any order and it is not expect that all units are undertaken at the same time.  A list of different units is given below:

To achieve a full Level 3 Certificate in Independent Advocacy, advocates will need to complete the four mandatory core units plus one of the specialist units.

To achieve a Level 3 Diploma in Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy - DOLS, advocates will need to complete the four mandatory units plus the two specialist units - Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards.

The National Mental Health Development Unit (NMHDU) is the agency charged with supporting the implementation of mental health policy in England by the Department of Health in collaboration with the NHS, Local Authorities and other major stakeholders.