Where can I get some Careers Advice?

[Celery]

I'm nearly 33, been a SAHM for the past 8 years. I have a mediocre degree in a pointless subject ( art and design history ) and very little work experience. I worked in a factory before university, and in an office doing basic admin, after university. I want to go to college and train for something vocational. I am so far out of the loop in anything to do with the world of work. Where can I go to get some decent careers advice?

I have never used them but this government outfit was the first to spring to mind:

www.learndirect.co.uk/

I'm a professionally qualified Careers Counsellor and this is what I'd say!

Learndirect will defintiely point you to courses - they have a huge database. They can also give you info on jobs.

However, sound slike you are directionless and learndirect are more about those who know what they want to do more or less.

Find your local Nextstep (affiliated to learndirect). These are govt. funded organisations aimed at adults and providing Careers Advice and Guidance. They are in every county of England (Scotland, Wales and NI are a bit different). However, increasingly they work with non graduates. Nevertheless, contacting one would be a good start. Counties differ in their service.

If you want a more indepth advice then maybe you should think about a pay service. Maybe your old university Careers Centre can offer some help to an ex grad. Also University of London have a pay service 'C2' that is quite cheap and open to all grads.

Also use Prospects www.prospects.ac.uk to try and narrow down your area of interest. It might inspire you.

Good luck.

Nextstep

www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/AdultLearning/DG_071762