This briefing paper aims to inform European Institutions as well as national policy and decision makers on the issue of integrated and holistic approach to lifelong learning. It also provides the context at a high level and share a few recommendations on ways to establish lifelong learning systems at local, regional and national level. It helps raising awareness about the main highlights and existing practice in order to make any necessary decisions or complete any similar ongoing work in this respect. The paper elaborates on the current context of learning in Europe, bringing a few examples of recent developments of community based services in education. [This briefing paper was written in partnership with the Educational Disadvantage Centre, Institute of Education, Dublin City University as co-authors. Joint publication with Lifelong Learning Platform.]