ReportCompetence Framework_DEF_19.06.2018

The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein. [Project Number: 2017-1-SK01-KA204-035385] In answer to question 3 “What are the main challenges and difficulties that you have faced in your career as career guidance?” the main issue that the career guidance workers commented on related to the challenges of working with vulnerable adults and the need to break down barriers. One interviewee commented on the difficulties in getting employers to understand the barriers that some people face and another commented on not only the confidence of the unemployed but the need for their own confidence to be developed. Language barriers were mentioned by two of the interviewees with regards to clients who were not native speakers of English and had low level of the English language. In answer to question 4 “How do you overcome the challenges and difficulties you face?” a range of techniques and strategies were mentioned with regards to overcoming challenges. These included asking a more experienced member of staff, using interpreters if English not the first language and trying to build the confidence of the clients. One commented that they also try to build the self-esteem and confidence of the client and encourage them to believe in themselves which can lead to meaningful employment . For question 5 “What are your needs as a guidance professional (training, up-skilling, etc.)? What would make your career better?” more training needed was the main answer and for employers to be more understanding. Mediation skills, one to one working skills, Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) skills and presentation skills . One participant would particularly like more training on supporting vulnerable women. Another area of need that was mentioned by the professionals was that they needed more training on the benefit system. This is currently changing dramatically in the UK and it was mentioned by 2 of the career advisors that this was a day to day problem trying to understand the changes and then best support their clients. For question 6 “Do you think career guidance and coaching is a developing field in your country? Why? Why not?” y es but it needs to develop even more. One advisor who has worked at a different organization commented that there is a lack of consistency in the profession and clients get different levels of support depending on where they are directed to. “I think it is already quite well developed with many leaders in the field” was one comment and another was “Yes, there are many courses to retrain and many opportunities to work in this field” . Additionally “Yes, I think so. There are lots of different careers available in the UK and also lots of people in unemployment so it is necessary” . In answer to question 7 “What are the main techniques that you use in your daily practice with low skilled adults and why?” listening to the client was the main answer which was repeated by 3 participants. One commented that their clients are not used to anyone listening to them properly. More practical methods/techniques for low skilled migrant women were also discussed along with positive psychology. Understanding the needs of the client and supporting them to work on their goals, signposting to other venues or training opportunities, were other strategies identified.