Author Description

A project was designed to define the extent of the courses and programs available to unemployed adults and to investigate the problems involved in maintaining an up-to-date information, guidance, and counseling service in the United Kingdom. Interviews were conducted with 100 unemployed adults in Nottingham, England. Information was sought on interviewees' past and present use of education and training, awareness of local provision, employment history and aspirations, and attitudes toward education, guidance facilities, and information about them. Agencies and organizations closely associated with unemployed adults and employers were also surveyed. Recommendations were made for setting up an information, guidance, and counseling network. A central coordinating unit was suggested to serve as a focal point for a citywide network of agencies offering support to the unemployed. After the need for a collaborative multiagency network was identified, the project instigated several pilot initiatives, including a directory of agencies, using the media, information pack, informal agencies forum, and collaborative outreach. A model of a citywide information and guidance network was proposed. Suggestions were also made for associated curriculum and staff development. (Appendixes include a bibliography, interview schedule, and staff development checklist.) (YLB)