What this role is

The Link Professional role is a certified communication and guidance role within the I Matter system.

It enables trained practitioners to have informal, informed conversations with colleagues, parents, or clients about the I Matter Learning Journey.

The focus is on helping people understand whether the programme is a good fit for their current needs.

This role does not involve teaching or delivering study support.

Who this role is for

This role is for professionals who want to:

• confidently talk about the I Matter Learning Journey
• support appropriate signposting and engagement
• contribute to wider relationship health awareness in their setting or community

It is suitable for practitioners in:

• health
• education
• community and voluntary settings

What Link Professionals do

Link Professionals:

• explain the I Matter Learning Journey in simple, accessible terms
• support informal conversations about whether the programme is appropriate
• help individuals consider readiness and fit
• contribute to community understanding of relationship health thinking

They are not responsible for delivery, teaching, or structured support.

Certification requirements

To become a certified Link Professional, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Entry requirements

You must:

• have completed Level 1 and Level 2
  
• have agreed suitability for this role with your organisation (where applicable)

2. Learning requirements

You must:

• complete the Link Professional training modules
• participate in at least 2 Link peer discussion sessions

3. Application of learning

You must:

• demonstrate ability to explain and discuss the I Matter Learning Journey appropriately in context
• complete a short reflective journal on your use of Link conversations

4. Maintaining certification

To maintain this role you must:

• remain engaged with the Link Professional community (minimum 2 interactions per year)
• complete a short updated reflection on practice or role application
  

Where this role sits in the system

Link Professionals are part of the wider I Matter role pathway:

• Participant – entry into learning journey
• I Matter Informed Practitioner – understands and applies the framework
• Link Professional – supports informal engagement and signposting
• Lead Professional – supports applied use in practice
• Senior Link Professional – supports organisational oversight

Community and networks

We are developing Link Professional networks within community and organisational hubs.

Our first pilot network is in the Kendal area, supporting integrated work across health, education, and community settings.

If you are based in this area or developing a similar model, please contact us.

How this role is used in organisations

Link Professionals may contribute to:

• community awareness and engagement
• early-stage conversations about wellbeing and relationship health
• development of local “Community Wheel” networks
• supporting access into appropriate levels of learning

Directory listing

Certified Link Professionals may be listed in approved organisational directories where applicable
Learn More

Apply

If you are ready to take on a role supporting informed engagement with the I Matter Learning Journey:

👉 Apply for Link Professional certification