This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Wendy Alexander takes the next step to a national all-age careers guidance service
20/04/2001
A new National Careers Organisation, with rigorous standards and objectives, will put people at the heart of Scotland's economic future. The clutter of 80 advisory organisations will be reduced to little over 20 - a one stop shop in every area. Scotland will be leading Britain in offering an all age guidance service.
Helping Scots to realise their true potential is the aim of the Executive's vision for world class, one stop shop careers guidance. The new service will enable all Scots to discover what they want to do, and how best to exploit their skills in tomorrow's economy.
Publishing 'Careers Scotland - the way forward', the Executive's response to the recent consultation on Careers Scotland, Ms Alexander said,
'I want all Scots, regardless of age, to be able to realise their talents and find more secure jobs. Skills are the key competitive weapon where countries will compete in the future - and we want Scotland to be in the lead.
'People no longer have jobs for life so it is our duty to make it easier for them to stay ahead of the game. Careers Scotland will be better able to support individuals through these transitions, to help them make the right choices for themselves, and their families future security.
'Careers Scotland will help end the 'blind date' between employers seeking workers and employees seeking employment; making sure that Scots have a greater insight and are better prepared to make future job choices.
'Careers Scotland will put clients first. The Executive has received overwhelming support for this vision, and the establishment of a national all-age service. I am keen to build on this enthusiasm and have outlined the way forward for establishing Careers Scotland in this document.'
BACKGROUND
- 'Careers Scotland - the way forward' - highlights the outcome of the recent consultation on the Executive's proposal the establishment for a national all-age careers guidance service for Scotland which will be aligned with the two Enterprise Networks.
- One hundred and fifty responses to the consultation were received from organisations and individuals.
- 'Careers Scotland will be leading Britain in providing a national structure offering all Scots access to quality, well informed careers guidance through out there working life.
- Through our programmes such as learndirect scotland, the Future Skills Unit and Careers Scotland, we are creating an economic climate where learning and skills are a key focus. In achieving this we will create one of the most skilled and adaptable workforces in the world.'
- The Executive proposes to establish the new service by April 2002. It will align 80 separate organisations with the two Enterprise Networks. The Executive has allocated an additional £24million to build upon and develop the assistance available to Scots looking for help with their career choices.
News Release: SE1029/2001
20 Apr 2001