Free Careers Advice Available For NI's Young People

Young people who have received, or are waiting to receive, exam results have been urged to avail of free, professional, impartial advice and guidance offered by NI Direct.

Last week young people across Northern Ireland received their A Level results, and GCSE results are to be delivered on Thursday (22 August).

Calling on young people and their parents and guardians to make use of the free Careers Service, Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: "It is important that young people receiving their exam results know that professional advice is available to help them navigate the next stage of their career journey."

The Minister continued: "Whatever results you have received ... my Department's Careers Service can outline the wide range of opportunities available, based on the most up-to-date labour market information.

"I want to wish all students best wishes for the future and reassure you the Careers Service is ready to support you on your next steps."

Deputy Head of the Careers Service Christina Kelly added: "I would like to encourage students to avail of professional careers advice to ensure any decisions they make on their future are well informed. The Department for the Economy's Careers Service can offer impartial advice and guidance on career pathways including further and higher education, training and employment, including apprenticeships, higher level apprenticeships and traineeships, as well as help and guidance on applying for employment, either full-time or whilst studying.

"Students and their parents/carers can contact the Careers Service using a range of methods including telephone, email and webchat.

"I would also like offer my very best wishes to those either receiving or waiting for their results and reassure you that the Careers Service is ready to help you access the path best suited to help you reach your career ambitions."

For immediate advice and guidance please contact the Careers Service by calling 0300 200 7820, lines are open 9:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday.

You can contact a Careers Adviser by webchat or email on the nidirect website.