As part of a series on illiteracy in New Aquitaine, the focus this time is on the Deux-Sèvres department. The Parthenay and Gâtine Employment and Business Center (MDEE) has initiated a process to inform employers about the issue of illiteracy and assist them in identifying concerned employees. The goal is to change perceptions and facilitate access to basic skills training.
Illiteracy in the workplace remains a sensitive subject. A significant portion of those affected are already employed and have held their positions for several years. Difficulties, often discreet, can emerge with changes in job roles, tools, or organizational structures. In response, the MDEE has launched a specific awareness campaign for businesses in its area, led since late 2025 by Juliette Billebault, an HR/SME business mission manager. This project is supported by the European Social Fund + (ESF+) and local inter-municipalities.
This initiative aligns with the MDEE's regular missions, which focus on HR support for businesses, particularly in recruitment, work-study programs, and employee professional development. The project has two components: maintaining seniors in employment and combating workplace illiteracy. It aims to enable employees to access training to strengthen their basic skills, addressing the challenges of extended careers and recruitment difficulties.
Initially planned with CLEE, an association specializing in illiteracy, the project had to be adapted after CLEE ceased operations in 2025. The MDEE is now collaborating with Cécile Canon (New Aquitaine regional coordinator) and Olivia Costantino (CORAPLIS associative coordination in Niort), ensuring a business-centric approach while leveraging specialized expertise.
The first phase involved raising awareness among business leaders and HR managers through workshops and webinars. These meetings revealed that the issue was not entirely unknown, with some companies having already identified difficulties among their employees. This realization is considered crucial, as some challenges might otherwise be misinterpreted as behavioral issues.
It is noted that illiteracy affects over three million people in France, 55% of whom are employed. In a company of 40 people, it is estimated that two to four employees could be affected, depending on the sector. In the Parthenay and Gâtine area, the presence of individuals with low or no qualifications poses a risk given professional evolution.
The challenge is to help employers distinguish between basic skills difficulties that can be addressed and other issues, such as French as a Foreign Language (FLE).
The transformation of jobs, particularly through digital tools, increasingly necessitates basic skills. Sectors like agri-food and personal services are seeing their skill requirements evolve, potentially challenging experienced employees.
Supporting affected employees requires caution to avoid stigmatization. It involves skills assessment and referral to appropriate training, with clear communication with the employee.
Given that some companies are not yet ready to commit, the MDEE plans a more targeted approach, working with willing businesses and priority sectors like agri-food and personal services. The aim is to build close relationships and address specific needs.
The initiative is still under development, with the goal of increasing awareness of the issue in the region and guiding companies toward the right resources to support their employees and foster professional development.
