Help with moving from benefits to work - Job Search Programmes
Jobcentre Plus can provide support to help you prepare for, find, and stay in work. They can give you training, guidance and work placement programmes, and schemes such as work experience, volunteering and job trialling. They can also support you with starting your own business, and help you to combine work with looking after children or caring responsibilities. There is also help for specific problems such as a history of unemployment in the family, drug and alcohol problems, parenting or financial management skills, antisocial behaviour or health conditions. If you have a disability, a Disability Employment Advisor (DEA) is also on hand to give assistance. They can help you to find a job or gain new skills in order to help you get back into work.
A Jobcentre Plus work coach can give you more information about the various programmes at your local Jobcentre Plus centre.
A 'Work Programme' is available which helps to provide support, work experience and training for up to 2 years to help people find and stay in work. You may have to join the Work Programme if you have been receiving Job Seeker's allowance for more than 3 months, or if you get Employment and Support Allowance and you are in the Work-Related activity group.
Jobcentre Plus will write to you and ask you to attend an interview. The assessment interview will take place if you are still on the Work Programme after 2 years. The interview aims to help you plan, prepare and find work. Depending on your individual circumstances, you can also volunteer to join the Work Programme. You will need to ask your Jobcentre Plus work coach for more information.
For specific types of work, sector-based work academies offer training and work experience for up to 6 weeks in a particular industry or area of work. Most academies also offer you a guaranteed interview for a job or an apprenticeship. These are available to people who are claiming Jobseeker's Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance (if you are in the Work-Related Activity Group).
'Work Clubs' are also available to anyone who is unemployed. They are run by local organisations such as employers and community groups. They provide a chance to network with others and share knowledge, experience and job hunting advice. This is a good way to get to know the organisations in your area and find out if there are any vacancies available.