Help with moving from benefits to work - Work Experience and Volunteering

Boost Your Employment Prospects with Work Experience, Volunteering, and Work Trials

Enhancing your chances of finding work can be achieved through various opportunities such as work experience, volunteering, and work trials. These initiatives not only provide valuable experience to include on your CV but also offer opportunities to learn new skills and gain practical knowledge highly valued by employers. For more information, reach out to Jobcentre Plus. Additionally, you may be eligible for assistance with expenses like childcare and travel costs.

If you're between the ages of 16 and 24 and currently receiving Jobseeker's Allowance, Jobcentre Plus can help you secure a work experience opportunity. Work experience placements typically range from 2 to 8 weeks, with an expectation of working 25 to 30 hours per week.

Another beneficial program is the 'Work Together' volunteering initiative, specifically designed to assist unemployed individuals in their job search. By volunteering with a local organization, you can gain temporary work experience and develop valuable skills.

Two additional trial schemes can significantly aid your job search:

Work Trials: These trials allow you to sample a job while continuing to receive benefits. Lasting up to 30 days, work trials offer the possibility of a job offer at the end. It's important to note that work trials are voluntary, and you won't be obliged to give up your benefits if you decide to finish the trial early or decline a job offer. Work trials provide a fantastic opportunity to gain firsthand experience in a specific role and assess its suitability. Contact your local Jobcentre Plus to help arrange a work trial or seek information on organizing one independently.

Employment on Trial: This scheme permits you to leave a job you've taken and resume claiming Jobseeker's Allowance without affecting your benefits, except in cases of misconduct or termination due to dismissal. To be eligible, you must have worked for more than 16 hours a week for a duration of 4 to 12 weeks before leaving the job.

Exploring these opportunities can significantly enhance your employability and help you find the right job. Don't hesitate to leverage work experience, volunteering, and work trials to accelerate your career progress.