unemployment work index
Under 18
If you are 16 or 17, you should register with the Careers Office for advice and help.
18+
When you are 18, you should go to the Job Centre. Your Job Centre can give you information that will help you get a job. They also provide the information you need if you are interested in learning new skills or starting your own business.
The Benefits Agency (DHSS) deals with benefits. The main benefit you can get if you are looking for a job is a Jobseeker's Allowance providing you are over 18. You can claim the allowance in special circumstances if you are 16 or 17.
For more details about the full range of Benefits visit the Benefits Office or their Web site (see Resources).
New Deal for Young People
New Deal is a government programme that aims to help people into work. There is a New Deal for Young People that is geared toward the needs of the 18-24 age group.
Everyone who enters New Deal will get the skills, training and experience they need to get into work. When you are accepted on the programme, you work with a New Deal Personal Adviser who will help you decide the best option for you. There are four options for young people:
- Employment
- Full-time education or training
- Work with the Environment Task Force
- Voluntary work
Tel. 0845 606 2626 ( or 0800 35 35 30 if you live in N. Ireland)
Take a leaflet from the Job Centre: 'New Deal for Young people aged 18 - 24'
Visit the New Deal Web site (see Resources).
Voluntary work can be a means of getting back into work. Many volunteers are offered some type of permanent employment if a job becomes available.
For advice and details of what's available contact the Careers Office, the Job Centre or Social Service.
Gap Activity Projects offer voluntary work to young people aged 18 - 19. Much of this work is overseas. Placements are usually for 6-9 months.
Contact Gap at:
GAP House, 44 Queen's Road, Reading, RG1 4BB. Tel. 0118 959 4914