The latest PES Network report reveals how Public Employment Services (PES) have been delivering vital training and up-skilling to help long-term unemployed workers access jobs, despite the pandemic. It also identifies key improvements for future training programmes.

© Shutterstock

The PES Network’s latest report ‘Labour market training for the long-term unemployed’ draws on survey responses from 31 Public Employment Services (PES) in Europe to reveal key trends in their training for the long-term unemployed.

Such access to training is an important element of the European Council Recommendation on the integration of the long-term unemployed into the labour market.

The report shows PES across Europe are designing, financing and monitoring training programmes, as well as encouraging long-term unemployed people to attend. Provision of the wide range of training programmes is done in co-operation with other training institutions/providers and social partners.

The vast majority of PES surveyed say they and their partners provide a combination of different types of training, including on specific skills and occupations, and job-search support.

All help long-term jobseekers develop digital and technology-based competencies. On-the-job, practical training or programmes related to jobs or vacancies are perceived as the most effective.

Policy recommendations

Training is key to effective labour market transitions and upskilling as well as re-skilling. The report provides useful insights to help PES and policymakers plan future training programmes for the long-term unemployed.

For example, findings show that on-the-job, practical training is much more effective at helping the long-term unemployed back into work than classroom-based training that does not involve employers.

Professional training in which graduates receive a formal vocational qualification is also highly effective. Courses that mix unemployed and employed people are more beneficial to long-term jobseekers than homogenous groups of learners.

In terms of how PES manage these services, encouraging jobseekers to select their own courses is quicker and more flexible than alternatives such as large-scale public procurement.

However, a lack of providers or financial resources is a particular issue in some regions. On the other hand, distance learning is a challenge for many jobseekers who cannot afford internet access, or lack digital skills or motivation.