Since 1997, policymakers in the United Kingdom and Europe have devoted extensive effort to devising policies and programs to reconnect young people with learning and work. In April 2001, England's government launched the Connexions Service, which is designed to meet young people's needs through a comprehensive, coherent, and holistic system of services such as the following: (1) a flexible curriculum that engages young people aged 14-19 and leads to relevant, sought-after qualifications; (2) assurance of high-quality provision in schools, further education colleges, and work-based learning; (3) targeted financial support for young people in learning; and (4) outreach, information, advice, support, and guidance. The respective European efforts have included many of the same principles and strategies but extend the age of young people served from 19 to 25. Other programs that have been initiated to help disaffected and socially excluded young people in the United Kingdom include the Young Adult Learners Partnership, which researches and develops effective approaches to learning and personal development among young adults on the margins of education, training, and employment, and Getting Connected, which is a curriculum framework intended to enhance the self-esteem and emotional literacy of young people outside the formal education and training system. These efforts have yielded valuable lessons regarding working with young adults. (Lists eight references and suggested readings.) (MN)