How to navigate unemployment with the Job Centre

In the uncertain and stressful times when you become unemployed it can be daunting to find out and understand what support may be available for you.

Be assured though that the teams at the Job Centre / Dept of Work and Pensions are there to help you every step of the way.

So, how do you get started?

Check out this page to find out what / if you are entitled to a benefit. https://www.gov.uk/how-to-claim-universal-credit

If you are you will be asked to provide some form of official ID, it can be done online but some people are asked to attend their local Job Centre.

In essence you will be classed as either ‘work ready’ or ‘not fit’ and your support will be assessed and provided to suit your specific needs.

Don’t forgot though that this support is for you to participate in and the ‘claimant commitment’ is in place to makes sure you understand and carry out your responsibilities. Read it here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/universal-credit-and-your-claimant-commitment-quick-guide/universal-credit-and-your-claimant-commitment

If you are able and ready to work you will be assigned a ‘Work Coach’ at the Job Centre, their role is to help guide, support and advise you on all aspects of the job seeker journey and hopefully celebrate your success in finding a new role.

Sometimes you may need further support and your Work Coach can signpost you to local partners who often provide employability skills, specific job skills training, community peer led support and access to further education.

If you are not fit for work, you will be signposted to relevant support to help you get back to work in a right and timely way.

Overall, you should approach unemployment support with an open mind and positive attitude, it’s a two-way street where you have responsibilities and activity to do.

We see skills / people shortages all the time on the news but sadly this doesn’t mean there are the right jobs for the right people in the right locations!

A lot of employers now are keen to train people in the skills they need as long as you bring the right attitude, work ethic and loyalty.