Access to success: Lifelong guidance for better learning and working in Europe takes stock of how guidance policies and systems, and the practice of lifelong guidance and counselling, are developing across the European Union. The organisation of the booklet reflects the four priorities of the 2008 Council Resolution on integrating guidance into lifelong learning.

The recession that started in 2008 increased the demand for career counselling and advice for jobseekers across Europe.  Those who have lost their jobs must, in many cases, transition to a new sector or upgrade their skills. In this environment, lifelong guidance is an important tool for policy-makers, in the pursuit of full employment, high educational attainment and economic growth.