New types of users with different kinds of learning and development needs
As the work of ACE National progressed and experience of the ACE clubs in developing carers' self efficacy and skills was gained, it was recognised that unless formal recognition in mainstream terms was given to their skills and knowledge (in other words, unless some 'institutionalisation' occurred), it was difficult to convince carers that these skills and knowledge bases were valued and would have real relevance in the labour market. In the building of confidence of unpaid carers as meaningful participants in the social and economic systems, there was a need to demonstrate to other labour market participants the value of the skills and knowledge of carers, and this needed to be demonstrable in the 'mainstream'. Helping carers to define and articulate their skills and knowledge in mainstream terms was therefore very important in building the confidence of individuals both in the work they do as unpaid carers (and helping them improve in their performance of that work) and also giving them a chance to progress should they choose and circumstances allow, into further education and/or paid employment outside their caring role.
...continue to the challenge!
|
