Government Skills
Last updated: 14 November, 2008
14 November 2008
New research shows vocational qualifications are route to higher wages.
A radical new advisory service will combine skills and training advice with practical guidance for people on how to overcome the barriers they face in getting on in life, Skills Secretary John Denham set out.
For the first time, the adult advancement and careers service (AACS) will provide a one-stop-shop for those seeking training and help into work but who also face problems in areas like childcare, money matters, housing and disability issues.
Publishing a prospectus setting out how the new service will develop, Mr Denham announced the names and locations of ten prototype advisory services across England whose work will inform the launch of the AACS in 2010.
The service, which will be freely available to all but targeted at those most in need, will play a key role in boosting social mobility – empowering people to access the opportunities they need to realise their ambitions, improve their lives and those of their families.
Mr Denham believes that although for most people, information about training courses and skills development is easily accessible, many such as the low paid and unemployed continue to face barriers which hold them back.
More about the national advancement service [External website]
