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National Careers Service

Delivering the National Careers Service

We deliver the National Careers Service as a prime contractor in the North East, Cumbria, Yorkshire and the Humber and as a key subcontractor in the South East of England. We provide world-class careers advice and guidance to more than 82,000 adults annually in a range of community settings. Our provision has helped transform lives and provides lasting economic and social benefit to the communities in which we work. Employing a person-centred approach, we help individuals recognise their strengths and skills, improve their employability and explore and manage their available career opportunities. Working together, we support people to realise their potential and achieve positive work and learning outcomes.

We are accredited to both the Matrix and Merlin Standards and, in all our work, we seek to demonstrate our belief in evidence-informed practice and service management. This is described and endorsed in our most recent Ofsted inspection report – view report (opens in a new window) – in which we were graded ‘outstanding’; in particular, our use of labour market information to inform practice and our approach to the use of digital tools is commended in the report.

Accessing our National Careers Guidance service


The National Careers Service is provided free of charge to all adults. Our careers support and advice can be provided face-to-face, via webchat, or over the telephone. For more information visit the National Careers website, contact the National Careers helpline on 0800 100 900 or visit speak to an advisor on webchat.

Visit the National Careers Service website
My experience with National Careers Service was outstanding, I have been supported and treated very well, I have been given really useful information and advice, and my confidence has improved.
National Careers Service participant

Case studies

Case Study - Travis

After being out of work for some time, the National Careers Service helped Travis secure a full time position in an industry that he was keen to work in.

Case study - Travis
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Case study - Thomas

Thomas came to the National Careers Service after feeling unsure about how to find work after graduating from university. Thanks to the National Careers Service, he was able to move into employment with a local council.

Case study - Thomas
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Case study - Emma

Emma came to the National Careers Service for support finding new employment after she was made redundant. Through her session, she learnt how to improve her interview techniques and successfully secured a new role.

Case study - Emma
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Case study - Angela

Angela came to the National Careers Service as she was out of work and “didn’t know which way to turn”. She had a strong background in care and was keen to stay in the health and social care sector but felt she needed support knowing how to move forward. Following her session, Angela has now started a new role within the NHS.

Case study - Angela
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