Helping adults overcome barriers to training

Many barriers still prevent adults from taking part in upskilling and reskilling, even when training opportunities exist. These challenges can arise at any stage – before adults consider training, while exploring options, during decision-making and even once enrolled. Governments play a critical role in removing these obstacles through policies such as training leave, career guidance and financial incentives. Training providers also share responsibility, within their available resources, by raising awareness, offering flexible formats and creating inclusive learning environments. This policy brief examines the barriers adults face throughout the training process and highlights interventions by governments and providers to overcome them. Its aim is to help policymakers and training organisations identify the most relevant solutions for their context.