Types of service you can request
Outside controlled airspace you ask for one of four UK Flight Information Services (CAP 774). Whichever you get, you stay responsible for collision avoidance unless told otherwise.
Basic Service
General information for any phase of flight (e.g. weather, changes of serviceability). Traffic information only if the controller happens to have it. You remain entirely responsible for your own collision avoidance, terrain clearance and navigation.
Traffic Service
A surveillance (radar) service: the controller passes traffic information on relevant conflicting traffic. You decide on and take your own avoiding action — no avoiding advice is given.
Deconfliction Service
A surveillance service giving traffic information AND deconfliction advice (headings and/or levels) to keep you clear of other traffic — usually IFR/IMC. You may accept it or not, but if you don't comply you take responsibility for your own separation.
Procedural Service
A non-surveillance service: instructions are based on reported positions (no radar). Deconfliction advice is given against other procedural traffic; traffic information where possible.