MyCred4Home aimed to promote social and professional inclusion for low-qualified profiles by combining two EU tools: micro-credentials (under development) and the validation of non-formal and informal learning. These tools help individuals gain recognition for their skills, improving employment opportunities and inclusion. The personal and household services (PHS) sector was chosen for its wide range of skills and growing demand for qualified workers due to demographic trends. Despite this, PHS professionals often lack recognition, and micro-credentials with validation offer promising solutions. The project had three main objectives: define standards for micro-credentials at lower qualification levels, explore their potential through validation, and promote employability and inclusion for disadvantaged groups. A benchmarking report guided the development of standards and tools, while a policy brief aimed to promote micro-credentials in the PHS sector. Dissemination efforts, including events and a final conference, raised awareness among key stakeholders.
Achieving social and professional inclusion required targeted actions to address barriers in skills recognition and development. The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the need for new tools, especially in the PHS sector, employing over 8 million people with potential for 5 million more jobs due to ageing demographics (EFSI, 2018). PHS was identified as a key sector for inclusion, yet its skills were often unrecognised, and many workers lacked formal qualifications. Validating non-formal and informal learning through micro-credentials emerged as a solution to support upskilling and employability. Micro-credentials, as defined by COM(2020) 274 final, documented learning outcomes in certificates or badges, combining validation and training. EU initiatives, including consultations and a Cedefop study (2023), sought to expand their role in fostering employment and inclusion.