Evaluation of Working Wales Career Reviews

In response, the Welsh Government commissioned Wavehill to undertake a review of the Working Wales Mid-Career Reviews programme, an initiative to encourage workers aged 50 and above to proactively consider their career development, skills, health, wellbeing, financial security, and work-life balance. With an increasing number of older individuals facing challenges in the workforce, this initiative has played a crucial role in promoting long-term employability and personal growth in an aging workforce.

The Evolution of Mid-Career Reviews

Mid-Careers Review aimed to address both economic challenges that emerged in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as longer-term economic challenges posed by demographic changes including a slow-down in birth rates and an aging population across Wales. In recognising the value and experience that older people bring to the workforce alongside the different employment needs and support required, the Mid-Career Review sought to proactively engage with this cohort through a targeted marketing campaign.

Our research shows that embedding this distinct service into the wider Working Wales employment-support offer has made an invaluable contribution to the career review process. Although initially intended for individuals over 50, through its position within Working Wales, the service has been able to reach a wider range of people. Many have reported that they have benefited from a career review more than they initially anticipated. It has been suggested that many previously held the misconception that career guidance could only be beneficial to young or unemployed people or used as a step on the path to securing training. Yet our research shows that a tailored career review can be extremely impactful, regardless of age.

Drawing on our evidence base and insights from across Wales, the UK, and internationally on how Career Reviews have been implemented in other contexts, we were able to showcase examples of best practices for supporting (older) workers to continue their employment journey.

Wavehill’s Research: A Comprehensive Approach to Supporting Job Seekers

Wavehill’s research into Mid-Career Reviews is linked to a broader evaluation of the Working Wales programme  This has encompassed evaluating a range of services that provide information, advice and guidance designed to support diverse cohorts of job seekers over the age of 16 across Wales.  Our evaluation  also reviewed the support that the programme has provided for different groups such as migrants and refugees. Our strategic evaluation both reflected the programme’s overall commitment to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their location or background, received the support they needed and considered how the service can continue to support job seekers to navigate an ever-evolving job market.

Wavehill’s research of the Mid-Career Review, alongside its broader evaluations of the Working Wales programme, underscores the importance of flexibility and tailored support. As the workforce continues to shift, targeted interventions like Career Reviews are essential for helping individuals manage their careers and plan for the future.