Connexions Direct (CXD)
Connexions Direct (CXD) offers advice, support and information for young people aged 13 to 19 on a wide range of issues relevant to their age group.
CXD consists of a dedicated website - for online searching on subjects such as careers, learning, health, relationships, finance and leisure activities and a helplinewhere young people can access information, advice and support via the telephone, text messaging, webchat and email.
The helpline operates from 8.00 am until 2.00 am, 365 days a year, offering useful out-of-hours support to complement local provision.
The Connexions Service Specifications for LAs include:
Connexions relationship with Connexions Direct
Local authorities must maintain an effective working relationship with the
national Connexions Direct Service - in particular to ensure that the
support provided by Connexions Direct accurately reflects and complements the
information, advice and guidance provided in each local authority area.
LAs must have regard to the following in delivering Connexions:
Although the additional backdrop of support offered by Connexions Direct (CXD)
is provided at no direct cost to the local authority, there is a need for local
authorities to ensure continued arrangements are in place to provide updates on
local provision. These updates should include: details of major activities,
campaigns or initiatives (especially those where Connexions Direct contact
details are included) as well as changes in premises, telephone contact numbers
and website addresses. All update information should be sent by email to the
dedicated CXDirect
Update mailbox.
Regular updating ensures that CXD Advisers can provide added value to the young
person by having detailed knowledge and access to information about local
provision, and ensures that young people can access useful, up-to-date, local
information via the CXD website. In return, CXD can provide management
information regarding the number, type and frequency of contacts made to the
helpline from specific areas, and the staff employed by the contractors can
provide visits, support and information sharing with local providers.
CXD can also offer local authorities the opportunity to agree voluntary Service
Level Agreements (SLAs). The voluntary SLA is a very useful tool for developing
good working relationships and focuses on information sharing, improving
communication channels, marketing and event support.
For more information about the voluntary SLA, or to arrange a visit, event
support or other activity, email Sara
Brasington, Business Integration Officer.
This page was last updated on 29 August 2008
