Help returning to work

Finding information

Research shows that a main problem for parent carers is a lack of information about locally-based services, benefits and employment policies.

If you’re looking for work, thinking of studying or joining a moving to work scheme and want to know about the impact on benefits such as Carer’s Allowance, Universal Credit, or tax credits, then read our benefits information.

Updating your skills

You have learned a lot of valuable skills as a parent and many of these can be transferred to work. However, if you have been out of paid employment for some time, it can be daunting to think about returning to work.

You may need to update your skills and there are many ways to do this. Some parents start by trying voluntary work, or by going to college part-time. Your local council for voluntary services (CVS) or volunteer centre will be able to tell you about volunteering opportunities in your area.

Contact your careers service for information about courses in England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland.

Schemes to help get back into work

There are a range of schemes and support to help certain groups of people prepare for work and find employment. The schemes are available through Jobcentre Plus. For example, disability employment advisers offer disabled people job-seeking advice and information about local disability friendly employers.

Read the government’s UK-wide information about moving into work and find out about specific schemes in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

Related information

Benefits & money

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Our helpline

Get in touch via phone, email or social media for advice and support from our team.

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Local support

Information about the help available in your area, from local advice organisations to parent support groups.

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Related information

• Speak to our experts for further advice by calling our freephone national helpline on 0808 808 3555.
• Find out about Universal Credit and working tax credit.