Leeds

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Employment Support

Resources to help with finding jobs, career guidance, and employment training programs.

Sections

1. Types of Employment Support Available

a. Universal Credit (UC)

Universal Credit is a government benefit designed to support individuals who are unemployed or on a low income. It combines several benefits into one payment and includes support for housing, children, and work-related costs.

  • Work-Related Support: If you are eligible for Universal Credit, you may be assigned a Work Coach who will help you find employment, improve your skills, and access training opportunities.
  • Job Search Assistance: Access to job boards, CV writing workshops, and interview preparation.

b. Jobseekerโ€™s Allowance (JSA)

JSA is a benefit for people actively seeking work. There are two types:

  • New Style JSA: For those who have paid enough National Insurance contributions in the last two years.
  • Income-Based JSA: For those with low or no income (now largely replaced by Universal Credit).

c. Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

ESA is for individuals who are unable to work due to illness or disability but are looking to return to work in the future. It includes:

  • Work-Related Activity Group: Support to prepare for work.
  • Support Group: For those unable to work at all.

d. Local Employment Support Programs

Leeds City Council and local organizations offer tailored employment support programs, including:

  • Leeds Employment Hub: A free service providing one-to-one support, career advice, and access to training and job opportunities.
  • Step Into Work: A program for young people aged 15-24, offering guidance on apprenticeships, training, and employment.
  • Leeds Mind Employment Support: For individuals with mental health challenges, offering tailored support to find and sustain employment.

e. Training and Skills Development

  • Leeds City College and Adult Learning Centres: Offer free or low-cost courses to improve skills and employability.
  • Skills Connect Leeds: Provides short courses and training in high-demand sectors like construction, healthcare, and digital skills.

f. Disability Employment Support

  • Access to Work: A government scheme providing financial support for workplace adjustments, travel, or equipment for individuals with disabilities.
  • Supported Employment Services: Local charities and organizations like Scope and Leeds Mind offer specialized support for disabled individuals.

2. Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for employment support benefits depends on your circumstances. Below are the general criteria:

Universal Credit

  • Aged 18 or over (16-17 in some cases).
  • On a low income or unemployed.
  • Have less than ยฃ16,000 in savings.
  • Reside in the UK and have the right to work.

Jobseekerโ€™s Allowance

  • Aged 18 or over and under State Pension age.
  • Actively seeking work and available to work.
  • Meet residency and income requirements.

Employment and Support Allowance

  • Have a health condition or disability that affects your ability to work.
  • Aged 16 or over and under State Pension age.
  • Meet residency and income requirements.

Local Programs

  • Leeds Employment Hub: Open to all Leeds residents aged 15+.
  • Step Into Work: For young people aged 15-24.
  • Disability Support: Must have a recognized disability or long-term health condition.

3. Costs

Most employment support services and benefits are free of charge. However:

  • Some training courses or certifications may have fees, though financial assistance or discounts may be available for those on benefits.
  • Access to Work may require your employer to contribute to costs in some cases.

4. Application Procedures

Universal Credit

  1. Apply online at the UK Government website.
  2. Attend an interview at your local Jobcentre Plus in Leeds.
  3. Provide necessary documents (e.g., ID, proof of income, tenancy agreement).

Jobseekerโ€™s Allowance

  1. Apply online or by phone via the UK Government website.
  2. Attend an interview at your local Jobcentre Plus.
  3. Agree to a "Claimant Commitment" outlining your job search activities.

Employment and Support Allowance

  1. Apply online or by phone via the UK Government website.
  2. Submit a medical certificate from your doctor.
  3. Attend a Work Capability Assessment.

Leeds Employment Hub

  1. Visit the Leeds Employment Hub website or contact them directly.
  2. Register for one-to-one support or specific programs.

Training and Skills Development

  1. Visit the websites of Leeds City College or Skills Connect Leeds to browse available courses.
  2. Enroll online or contact the provider for assistance.

5. Local Considerations and Resources in Leeds

  • Jobcentre Plus Locations: Leeds has several Jobcentre Plus offices where you can access employment support services. The main office is located at:

    • Leeds City Jobcentre Plus: Eastgate, Leeds LS2 7JL.
    • Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

  • Leeds City Council: Offers additional support for residents, including housing benefits and council tax reductions. Visit their website at Leeds City Council.

  • Charities and Community Organizations:

    • Zest Leeds: Provides employment support and training for disadvantaged communities.
    • St. Vincentโ€™s Support Centre: Offers free advice on benefits, employment, and training.

  • Networking and Job Fairs:

    • Leeds regularly hosts job fairs and networking events. Check the Leeds City Council website or local community boards for updates.

  • Public Transport: Leeds has an extensive public transport network, making it easy to access Jobcentres, training centres, and employment hubs. Consider purchasing a MetroCard for discounted travel.

6. Additional Tips

  • Digital Access: If you donโ€™t have internet access, libraries in Leeds offer free Wi-Fi and computer use.
  • Language Support: If English is not your first language, many services in Leeds provide interpreters or multilingual staff.
  • Volunteering: Volunteering can be a great way to gain experience and improve your CV. Organizations like Voluntary Action Leeds can help you find opportunities.

By utilizing these resources and programs, you can access comprehensive employment support in Leeds to help you find work, improve your skills, and achieve financial stability. Let me know if you need further assistance!