Gaining Insight into European Public Employment Services
At the recent NESA conference, Jobs 22 had the opportunity to gain insight into a range of public employment services and associated bodies from Europe, including Madrid (Spain), Brussels (Belgium) and Paris (France). This exchange of knowledge was invaluable, providing an opportunity for public bodies to share how they approach the delivery of employment support in each country and for Jobs 22 and the organisations they represented to share similar insights from Australia.
It was interesting to note the underlying similarities between Europe and Australia regarding tackling worklessness, addressing low skills and ensuring those with health conditions and disabilities can engage in the employment market. Despite this, each jurisdiction had taken a different approach to delivering employment support.
For example, Spain has a highly decentralised approach, with all funding for support and interventions devolved to the 17 Autonomous regions; this allows for more tailored support to local needs. Furthermore, there is a significant focus on skills development, with learners often employed in apprenticeship-like positions and paid for up to 2 years whilst learning a skill. Additionally, there is a high focus on those with disabilities and the benefit of supported employment services.
In Brussels, four different Public Employment Services are delivered at the regional level to cover three official languages. Actiris and VDAB work with a network of partners (mainly not-for-profit organisations) to provide specific support to job seekers. VDAB has a digital-first principle for job seekers' registration and skills assessment, which uses an AI approach to assess the job seekers' distance to the labour market. There is also a high level of collaboration with employers illustrated by awareness campaigns or 'Diversity' Units which help employers shape and implement diversity action plans.
In France, Pole Emploi reflects a culture and structure of multiple public services working together or merging to support job seekers. Many pilots and programmes are integrated or delivered through partnerships/outsourcing to remove social obstacles and support specific target groups such as youth, long-term unemployed people or those with disabilities.
We've identified some key learnings from this conference which could help enhance our services. We'll explore combining skills and apprenticeship services with the work done in employment support divisions. Additionally, developing expertise in supported employment could benefit those with more complex barriers, such as mental health issues or learning disabilities. More focus could be on promoting job-seeking skills and career planning for those unemployed or under-employed. Finally, exploring innovative approaches to job matching, such as using AI technology and mentors, could help improve client job outcomes.