Work and Adult Education

Once you have given yourself time to recover and settle into your new home you might want to consider working or maybe this could be the time to retrain or re-educate yourself in skills that could open a whole new set of doors.

If you are not sure where to begin, there’s lots of free, impartial advice from services like Careers Advice and learn direct and nextstep.
They will be able to tell you about your options and about any free money you could get to help pay towards your learning.
You can meet a trained adviser face-to-face, have a conversation over the phone or contact an adviser by email.

If you decide to improve your skills by going on a course, there are almost a million in the UK to choose from. So, you’re bound to find one that interests you and fits around your home commitments.

You can choose where and when you learn – you don’t have to sit in a classroom. For example, you may be able to get training at work. You can learn full or part time, for a few hours or for several years – whatever suits you best.

Get free, expert advice on your learning or career options by calling the Careers Advice Service - or by arranging for an adviser to call at a time that suits you.
All calls are completely free, whether to a land line or a mobile phone.

Careers Advice Service: 0800 100 900


Tips for helping you find a job

Sit down. Write out why you need this job - for money, for self esteem, to get out of the house.

Look at your personal strengths, weaknesses, opportunities.

Define a list of jobs you would like. This can be as fanciful as you like, remember this is the planning stage and nothing is impossible.

List your 10 best work attributes, think laterally, if you have been a home maker for 5 years that makes you a great organiser. If you have been in the same job for 10 years that makes you loyal and committed.

Look at your list of attributes and desired jobs and make real connections. Do you have the experience to get the kind of job you want? If you don't then maybe you need to consider retraining?

Take first steps. Look for jobs that fall within your areas of experience and interest.

Apply for a range of jobs. Even if they are not perfect they will provide you with good practice so you are ready when the perfect one for you comes along.

Try voluntary work for a time - it often leads to paid work and can build your confidence.

Don't get downhearted. If you aren't immediately successful keep going! Finding the right job takes time.

If you need more help and advice on finding a job contact your local jobcentre plus office