Our Adult Guidance and Information Service, part of our Further Education and Training (FET) Service, provides free, confidential, and professional guidance to adults across Co Donegal. It is designed for everyone. Whether you’re one of our students or a member of the general public, you can get the support you need. But what does the Service do? In this month’s blog, Service Coordinator Mairéad McFadden explains.
In a world increasingly defined by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, the need for grounded, person-centred support has never been greater. As Coordinator of the Adult Guidance and Information Service in Donegal ETB, I see daily how our work empowers individuals to navigate change, build confidence, and take ownership of their personal and career journeys.
What We Do: A Holistic, Person-Centred Approach
The Adult Guidance Service offers free, confidential, and professional guidance to adults across Donegal. Whether someone is returning to education, exploring career options, or seeking personal development, our team provides tailored support through:
- One-to-one guidance and counselling
- Group workshops and career planning sessions
- Information on education, training, funding, and employment opportunities
- Support with CVs, interviews, and job applications
- Referral to other services and supports
We meet a diverse range of clients, from early school leavers and long-term unemployed to career changers, adult learners, and those facing personal or social challenges. Our team of qualified Guidance Counsellors and Information Officers brings empathy, professionalism, and strategic insight to every interaction. As one staff member shared: “It’s not just about giving information, it’s about listening, understanding, and helping people see possibilities they didn’t know existed.”
Our work is deeply embedded across Further Education and Training (FET) programmes, ensuring students receive integrated support that enhances their educational experience and progression. Another added, “We’re not just helping people find courses or jobs. We’re helping them find confidence, direction, and purpose.”
At the heart of our service is a belief in the transformative power of guidance. We aim to empower clients and our own team to become resilient, self-managing individuals who can thrive in uncertain times. This means fostering:
- Self-awareness and confidence
- Adaptability and lifelong learning
- Goal-setting and strategic planning
- Emotional intelligence and well-being
We don’t just help people find courses or jobs; we help them find direction, purpose, and the tools to navigate life’s complexities.
Challenges in a Changing World
The landscape of adult education and employment is shifting rapidly. Economic instability, global crises, and the rise of artificial intelligence are reshaping the future of work and learning. These changes bring both challenges and opportunities:
- Job displacement and skills gaps
- Digital transformation and remote work
- Mental health pressures and social isolation
- Need for continuous upskilling and adaptability
Our service responds by staying adaptable, informed, and deeply connected to local and national networks, bridging the gap between our clients and the complexities of the world of work and life. We advocate for inclusive access to education and support, especially for those most at risk of being left behind.
Coaching for the Future: Realising Potential
Guidance is more than information. It’s a coaching relationship. Our practitioners, qualified in careers guidance and counselling, create a safe space to listen without judgement and bring empathy, professionalism, and strategic insight to every interaction. We help clients:
- Clarify their values and aspirations
- Identify strengths and overcome barriers
- Develop action plans and monitor progress
- Build resilience and emotional well-being
Weaving Impact Across Donegal ETB
Our service is not a standalone offering; it’s woven into the fabric of Donegal ETB’s FET provision and public service ethos. We collaborate with teachers, coordinators, community organisations, and employers to create a seamless support system for students and clients. Our impact is visible in:
- Improved student retention and progression
- Enhanced career outcomes and personal growth
- Stronger community engagement and inclusion
Client Success Stories: Real Lives, Real Impact
Our work is best understood through the voices of those we support. Una, who lost her job during the pandemic, found a new path through education with our help. She shared: “The Guidance Service helped me see that I wasn’t stuck. I’m now studying something I love and feel hopeful again.” Karl, who struggled with interviews, received coaching that helped him secure employment and explained to us, “I didn’t realise how much confidence I was missing until I worked with the Guidance team. They helped me prepare and believe in myself.”
Irene, who returned to learning after years away, told us: “I was nervous, but the support I got made all the difference. I’m now on a course and loving it.” Shauna, having completed a course in Information Technology, met entry requirement barriers in having her qualification accepted for a Business Degree – we supported her to progress into ATU: “I truly appreciate all the effort, support, and help given to me throughout the admissions process. It really meant a lot and made a difference in getting my application accepted.
These stories reflect the transformative power of guidance, not just in education, but in life.
Looking Ahead
As we face the future, our mission remains clear: to empower adults in Donegal to take charge of their lives, careers, and learning. The Adult Guidance and Information Service offers support for career, education, and life goals. Together, we can ensure that every adult, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to realise their full potential.
How to contact us
Please call our service on 074 9178088 or email adultguidance@donegaletb.ie, or visit our Donegal ETB website page to complete the short form here (https://www.donegaletb.ie/further-education-training/adult-guidance/), and our staff will get back to you.