My account

Level 3 Award

As far as the ABI is aware, according to the Home Office, the government currently does not have plans to regulate investigative activities through licensing. However, it was originally thought that if statutory regulations were introduced, the Level 3 Award in Professional Investigations might serve as a suitable test of competency.

The ABI is not currently endorsing the Level 3 qualification, which has shifted from a knowledge-based framework to one focused on practical application.

The assessment method has also evolved, moving away from primarily multiple-choice questions to a model that relies on trainer observations, professional discussions, practical tasks, and written assignments.

After reviewing the new syllabus, the ABI has acknowledged that, despite its updates, it seems to lack adequate emphasis on essential skills required for compliance in the sector, particularly regarding data protection.

The good practice guide in the ICO-approved ABI UK GDPR Code of Conduct outlines the fundamental skills necessary for both novice and experienced investigators. The ABI UK GDPR Workshops offer the vital training included in the Code.

Testimonials

Thank you so much for the training; I am really glad that I attended. I hope that I can retain the information I learned. Tony did an excellent job; I learned a ton; it was personally very helpful to me. Tony was extremely clear and patient. 2024-12-12

Matt Stern

ABI Member

Good clarification on points, highly valuable - I learnt a lot even though it was my third time on the course! 2024-11-30

Charlotte Notley

ABI Member

I found the workshop to be very informative. The workshop provided me with specific hands-on skills. The workshop was well-paced, clear, and concise. 2024-11-30

Workshop attendee

I attended my 4th workshop on 16 Nov 2024. I’m glad I did because it served as a very useful refresher and I can see how GDPR is evolving. The workshop is presented really well, and because other participants are present, it is most helpful (and fun at times) to debate scenarios, work out the best practices, identify the booby traps, and see common mistakes close up.
Whether or not any investigator chooses to become a code member, they’ll 100% benefit from the workshop as a tool to keep them away from trouble when handling personal data. I can read up on it, I can seek training elsewhere, BUT the workshop is tailor-made for me as an ABI member, in a room with my peers and well within my comfort zone. 2024-11-16

Peter Farrington

ABI Member

Attending the ABI GDPR Workshop was invaluable. The course provided clear, practical guidance on GDPR compliance in terms of the role of the private sector investigator, enabling me to understand and navigate data privacy regulations confidently. The presenters expertise and real-world examples made the concepts easy to understand, and the interactive sessions helped us apply GDPR principles directly to cases we are regularly asked to undertake. Highly recommended for any private sector investigator looking to strengthen data protection practices! 2024-10-19

Mike LeCorte

ABI Member

Easy to understand and follow along. Great zoom quality. Excellent. I learnt new information I can immediately use in my business and current tasks. This is my first course with the ABI and this has given me good encouragement that any further courses will be just as valuable. 2024-11-16

Chris Harvey

ABI Member

Easy to understand with the right level of detail required Very clear. I left the course feeling I had a much better understanding of my role and responsibilities. 2024-11-16

Workshop attendee