How to Apply for APS

Scottish befriending projects have to follow 2 main stages in order to apply for the Approved Provider Standard:

  1. Register with BNS of your intention to apply for APS using the Working Towards APS Registration Form. This involves:
    • Undertaking to develop your project in line with the key principles of APS
    • Agreeing to submit your full application within 12 months
    • Indicating which of 4 annual deadlines (1st March, 1st May, 1st August, 1st November) you are aiming to submit your application by. [This is not binding but helps BNS to provide appropriate and timely support.]
  2. Complete an application form and send it to BNS with a portfolio of supporting evidence. The portfolio should contain 'live' project documentation (e.g. completed, anonymised forms; policies and procedures etc) and is likely to be fairly substantial (most projects submit an A4 Lever Arch folder). See an example of 'live' evidence.

Application forms

Reaccrediation

APS Accreditation lasts for 3 years. Projects that wish to maintain their status as Approved Providers should complete and return the Reaccreditation Form before their accreditation expires.

Reaccreditation form

Further information