Researchers from UCLL have spent a year collaborating with Limburg youth, mentors, and organizations to identify the factors that make guidance programs successful for young people struggling to connect with education or work. The results of this research, part of UCLL's Inclusive Society research line and supported by Limburg Sterk Merk (LSM), were presented at a networking event in the Social Tech Hub on the UCLL campus in Hasselt.
The study gathered insights from 20 young people and 52 mentors from 26 Limburg organizations. These findings lead to concrete recommendations for professionals working with young people facing social exclusion. In Flanders, approximately 7 percent of young people aged 18 to 25 are in a NEET situation (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). Young people with lower educational attainment or a migration background are at higher risk, as are those who leave secondary education without qualifications.
A crucial insight from the research is that young people themselves best know what works for them. The research team therefore used methodologies such as walking interviews and podcasts to stay close to the young people's world. The conversations showed that successful guidance depends not only on the support offered but primarily on how young people feel heard, seen, and empowered. A mentor who conveys trust, safety, and belief is essential, even before offering a vacancy or training program.
“"A trajectory works not only through the offer, but especially when a young person experiences trust, safety, and belief from a mentor. So it doesn't start with that vacancy, training, or mandatory track... but with trust, a sense of security, and a mentor who stays by that young person's side."
“"Someone who listened, understood me, and made me feel like I wasn't alone was the most important thing for me. I didn't want to be judged for the umpteenth time."
The research identified five success factors: the young person's ownership and autonomy, a strong and high-quality mentoring relationship in a safe environment, attention to practical conditions, involvement of the network around the young person, and a positive future perspective that allows dreams and ambitions to flourish.
The project was realized in collaboration with Limburg organizations from welfare, youth work, education, and the labor market, as well as 16 student researchers from UCLL. Through methodologies like walking interviews and podcasts, researchers could better understand the young people's world. UCLL aims to provide professionals with concrete tools to better support young people and empower them sustainably on their path to education, training, or work.
