Abstract
The argument of this position paper is that neither lifelong learning in the narrow sense of vocational learning nor adult vocational guidance and counselling is a panacea for social exclusion. Nevertheless, for individuals who are socially excluded or at risk of being so, and whom access to lifelong learning is likely to bring benefits, holistic, impartial, client-centred guidance is extremely important in helping people make the best choice for their circumstances and skills.

Guidance can also assist in lowering the dispositional barriers that prevent people from accessing lifelong learning. Although guidance services have no power to dismantle the far more important institutional and situational barriers, they can work actively with employers and learning providers to change systems which deter potential learners.

Without, however, help and support from the state to overcome both institutional and situational barriers, and stable, adequate funding, the role of guidance is limited.