Returning to Work
If you're looking to return to work, but you haven't held a job in a while, you'll probably be feeling a bit apprehensive. It's likely you'll be worried about money too, especially if you've been receiving benefits or you have children to consider.
Talk to an adviser at your local job centre about your options. There are various programs that are designed to help long-term unemployed people and people who have been claiming incapacity benefits back into work.
It's also possible that you could continue to receive financial help, for example Working Tax Credits for parents. If you're any doubt, talk to a job centre adviser or one of the people listed on the Jobs and Careers home page. You may also be interested in our Benefits Advice and Childcare sections.
If you'd like more information, check out the online links below. If you have a long term illness or a disability and you'd like more information on getting into work see the information on Employment for Carers and People with a Disability.
Online information
Direct.gov
Provides information on the following
Jobcentre Plus: Job Hunting Help
Job Centre plus will help you look for work, prepare for interviews or even help set up your own business.
Stay sane while you job hunt
Holding a job isn't just about having a steady income, it's also a place where you make friends and, depending on the type of work you do, get daily exercise. So, while it's important that you think about the practical things like benefits, you also need to make sure you look after yourself! Check out these quick tips from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde:
- Make sure you're getting your full benefit entitlement
- Stay active, exercise and get out of the house reularly - even if it's just for a walk around your local area.
- Keep in touch with your mates
- Get involved in local groups, these will give you the chance to socialise and some may offer access to training
- Do some voluntary work. It won't affect your benefits, but it will give you experience, a chance to meet you new people and improve your job prospects
