THE SUPPORTIVE ROLE OF THE CAREER ADVISER WHEN WORKING WITH ADULTS FROM AT-RISK GROUPS
Keywords:
career guidance, adults from at-risk groups, lifelong learningAbstract
The article examines the supportive role of the career counsellor in working with adults from at-risk groups in the labour market. It focuses on the transition from administrative intermediation to personalised support combining career guidance, the development of career management skills, and referral to suitable training and employment opportunities. The main barriers faced by the long-term unemployed, low-skilled individuals, members of ethnic minorities, people approaching retirement age, and people with disabilities are examined theoretically. The empirical part of the study is based on twelve semi-structured interviews with people with disabilities and chronic health conditions. The findings identify practices that, according to the participants, help increase their confidence, active engagement, and readiness for employment. The main conclusion is that, in the interviewees’ view, the acquisition of new knowledge and vocational skills provides better opportunities for occupational integration when combined with accessible, individualised, and ongoing career counselling.
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