What is Connexions?

Connexions is an advice and guidance service in England for all 13 to 19 year olds.

What is the purpose of Connexions?

To give you the best possible start in life by helping you achieve a smooth transition from adolescence to adulthood.

How does it work?

It gives help when and where you need it through a network of personal advisers.

What can I expect from Connexions?

Everyone can expect to receive:

HELP to review your strengths and weaknesses and to recognise your potential and set goals.

ADVICE on planning to achieve your educational life goals, including careers information, advice and guidance.

ADVICE on health, lifestyle, housing, financial support and other personal issues that may prevent you from achieving your goals.

INFORMATION on opportunities to broaden your horizons and develop talents.

SUPPORT and advice and co-ordinated access to specialist help where needed.

How is Connexions different?

It puts you first.

It wants you to have an opinion and a voice in shaping Connexions.

It offers a co-ordinated approach - a one-stop shop where you can access help, advice, information and support.

Why does the Connexions Service keep information about me?

Many people who offer you a service will ask for and keep information about you; when you make an appointment at the doctors or ask an employer for a part-time job.

The Connexions Service and your Personal Adviser will ask for information too; we will write this down and put the information onto our computer system.

The reason we do this is to make sure you do not miss out on any of the services Connexions can offer you, such as:

• An appointment with a Personal Adviser
• An invitation to an open evening
• Information about jobs and training opportunities
• Other support if you need it

The kind of information we keep includes:

• First name(s) and Surname
• Date of birth
• Address including postcode
• Telephone number
• Gender (male or female)
• Ethnicity (black, white, Chinese etc)
• Parent/carer contact name
• School or college you are attending
• GCSE results

The information we hold will not be passed onto anyone else unless you give us your permission. Any information kept about you will be information you have given us when talking to your Personal Adviser.

The only reason Connexions will pass on information without your permission, is if there is a legal requirement or duty for Connexions to do so or if there is a risk of serious harm or threat to your life.

Where do I go if I want help from Connexions?

Connexions Centres are based all over Cumbria click on Contact Us for details.