By Sasha Glasgow
A new all-encompassing super service is to be piloted in London to help?those in and out of work?overcome barriers to success in the workplace.
A new adult advancement and careers service will boost the city’s skills by giving Londoners access to advice on giving advice on jobs, skills, housing, finance and childcare.
The first pilot will serve several boroughs in South London, building on existing careers services already available.
The second pilot, to be developed in partnership with the Mayor, will focus specifically on the challenges facing people who already have a job but want to develop further skills, take more responsibility and earn higher wages.
By 2011, the government hopes to have the service in full operation, with a key element of being?a ‘no wrong door’ approach developed jointly with colleges, the voluntary sector, childcare, health and financial advice services. The agencies will work to high common standards of customer service, offering referrals to more expert advice where necessary.
Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills John Denham said, “People who want to get on need support improving their skills and, often, sorting our childcare, tax credit, housing and other issues.
“The new joined- up approach to providing advice and support is crucial to overcoming these barriers.”
