How do we reach vulnerable target groups for career guidance in the Netherlands?

In the Netherlands, there are currently many developments in the field of career guidance and lifelong learning, but vulnerable target groups do not always make use of them yet. This exploration study therefore investigates the ways in which vulnerable target groups are reached in the Netherlands to encourage them to make more use of career guidance.
This main question was answered through a literature review of recent initiatives and public policy on career guidance. In addition, six experts were interviewed about the current situation.

This exploration study shows that there is a need for more cooperation, better information supply and insight into private initiatives. In addition, there is no clarity on when someone falls under a vulnerable target group. In policy and practice, various vulnerable target groups are distinguished, such as people with a language barrier or people with an employment restriction, but this term covers more target groups. Experts in most cases do not focus specifically on one target group, but do distinguish different vulnerable target groups.

To better reach, motivate and guide vulnerable target groups, several success factors emerge from the literature and interviews. These include: paying more attention to the preliminary process, small interventions, physically and emotionally connecting with the target group, offering space within the work and certification. Besides success factors, challenges also emerge such as subsidy schemes that are not always set up for vulnerable target groups and the lack of a clear structure for learning and working. The results of this exploration study lead to the following recommendations:

1. Create overview of initiatives and improve information provision.
2. Make sure training offerings are compatible with work and can be combined.
3. Connect physically and emotionally with the target audience.
4. Consider the context.