The Graduate Futures Institute's new Quarterly Data Barometer makes a big impact, revealing just how much this data is needed, writes Claire Toogood
The Graduate Futures Institute recently released the Quarterly Data Barometer (QDB). For several years we have surveyed our careers leaders and members to gather data that helps support their work. However, the QDB focuses on gathering member data so it can be shared with a wider, external audience. It's designed to get people talking about careers and employability.
We're really proud of what the QDB says about the work of our members. The numbers speak volumes about the incredible activities happening across higher education careers services. In a tough economic climate, the sector is stepping up to innovate, adapt, and deliver support that truly makes a difference for students and graduates.
The QDB headlines
The QDB shared the big picture. Over the past academic year:
- More than 1 million students completed a careers registration or readiness survey. That's a million individuals taking steps toward their future.
- Over 215,000 students sat down for one-to-one careers guidance appointments - accessing professional, personalised advice that can change lives.
- Careers teams ran 20,640 events, attracting over 637,000 participants. From workshops to fairs, these events are where opportunities happen.
- Online engagement is thriving: over 950,000 students accessed careers resources via their institution, and over 160,000 used online CV checkers.
- And it doesn't stop at graduation: more than 211,000 graduates received careers support, with 45% of our member institutions now offering lifetime support. That's a huge shift toward ongoing employability.
These numbers are proof of the sector's commitment to helping people navigate uncertain times and shape their futures.
Making headlines and sparking conversations
At the start of January, the QDB was shared with careers leaders at our Leadership Conference in Brighton, and across our social media. As well as a fantastic response at conference, with one attendee saying 'Loved Claire's barometer session. great to see the results and see the breadth of impact across the sector.', Graduate Futures Institute members have also responded warmly to the QDB on LinkedIn. Phil Williams from the University of Birmingham said, 'Fantastic to see the Graduate Futures Institute showcasing the immense scale and impact of HE Careers Services across the UK. If anyone ever doubts the role of Careers Services in our sector, then think again!' while Tina Crowley from the University of Chichester highlighted the 'really powerful information here on the value and reach of UK university careers services'. And we're also delighted to see careers teams have shared the QDB with their students, to encourage them to engage with their services and access key support.
And it doesn't stop there. The Times Higher Education also featured a news article to highlight how institutions are responding to economic challenges with bold, student and graduate-focused strategies, featuring data from the QDB, as well as the trend toward lifetime career support. It's great to get this kind of national coverage and it's thanks to our heads of service who completed the survey that we can shout about this.
What's next?
The Quarterly Data Barometer is just beginning. Future editions will dig deeper into areas like work-based learning, employer engagement, and enterprise initiatives. We'll keep benchmarking, sharing insights, and shining a light on what our members do. For everyone working in careers and employability, these results are a reminder of the impact you have every day. In challenging times, you're helping students and graduates find their path, build confidence, and seize opportunities. That's something to be proud of.
A version of this article was also published on the Graduate Futures Institute blog.
Written by
Was this page useful?
Thank you for your feedback