Introduction
For some people, seeking information from officials in big,
official buildings can be a daunting task. That is why some
authorities have outreach venues that provide advice and guidance
on careers, employment, education and training to residents in
local neighbourhoods. These 'one-stop shops' are managed by
information and advice officers (IAOs) and the service is targeted
at the disadvantaged sector of the community.
IAOs also train the staff of community groups so that they can
develop an IAG (information, advice and guidance) service
themselves to help reduce social isolation, improve health, create
jobs and enhance the environment - the essential elements of urban
regeneration.
Work Environment
Outreach information and advice is delivered in various locations
in the council area. It may operate from existing purpose built
outreach centres or be part of a local community venue, at parents
groups, nurseries, libraries, health centres, housing aid
centres/hostels, street festivals, training/job fairs and local
events. The offices/stalls are informal and friendly.
Daily Activities
Giving outreach information, advice and guidance requires a one-to
one, personalised service for those who need it. It is especially
beneficial for people from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds
many of whom rely on state benefits- including ethnic minorities,
lone parents, refugees, the homeless and long term unemployed. In
giving advice the IAOs will need to have some knowledge of the
Working Families Tax Credit and New Deal for Lone Parents schemes.
They will also need to be familiar with the barriers that can
prevent people from getting work, including those who are disabled
and the over 55s. The basic objective of the IAO is to:
- provide outreach information and advice (including job-search
and CV writing support) about employment, careers, education and
training;
- refer clients to other organisations where appropriate;
- provide IAG face-to-face to clients and community groups using
telephone, fax and e-mail when necessary;
- seek out those who are most in need of help - not wait for them
to come;
- make productive use of established careers and training
organisations;
- point out current job vacancies and try to link unemployed
clients with employment/work placement opportunities arising in the
labour market;
- organise marketing material to advertise the service -
including contributing material for publication in local
newsletters and newspapers;
- develop a bank of employment, careers, training and educational
resources;
- maintain a supply of current material about careers/training
events and job vacancies for distribution and display at
neighbourhood community venues;
- design and develop training, group-work and presentation
sessions for community organisations;
- monitor clients' progress;
- compile and update client records but respect
confidentiality;
- administer an Access Fund.
Skills & Interests
You should be able to:
- communicate clearly and effectively in person, on the phone and
in writing;
- work with a diverse client group in a sensitive and
professional manner;
- cope with difficult situations under pressure;
- prepare and deliver group information sessions and
presentations;
- liaise with partnership organisations and develop a network of
contacts;
- manage limited resources;
- compile records;
- create attractive publicity and marketing material using IT
packages;
- demonstrate that you have a caring nature.
Entry Requirements
Educated to degree level or equivalent in a relevant subject or
have 3 years experience. Experience of giving information and
advice about civic matters and of providing job-search support is
important. This might have been gained by working in an inner city
and multicultural setting where you will have acquired an
understanding of urban deprivation and the needs and difficulties
experienced by the unemployed. Knowledge of careers, employment,
training and education issues is expected.
Future Prospects & Opportunities
With the regeneration of many inner city conurbations and an
increasing sense of community responsibility, come a host of
different jobs in this area of work. There are opportunities for
advancement within Single Regeneration Budget schemes and
Neighbourhood Renewal Fund projects (awarded by central
government), for example, and with further training and
qualification in social work. Local authority partnerships with
commercial companies offer further opportunities for management of
regeneration projects.
Further Information & Services
European Network of Training Organisations for Local &
Regional Authorities www.ento.org/portal
Social Care Association www.socialcareassociation.co.uk
Job Centre Plus www.dwp.gov.uk/jobcentreplus
Citizens Advice http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
You may find further information about this area of work through
Careers Wales (www.careerswales.com/) or
in your local library, careers office or school careers
library.