Getting back in to work or education.

kitschkitty

Hi,

I have been unemployed for the last few years, and want to go back to work this year.

My OH is working, we get tax credits (no kids so not WTC) and a very small amount of housing benefit.

There are 2 issues I'd really appreciate some input on please.

Firstly, I have a pretty good CV, the only thing missing is (for interview time) any referees, how can/should I address this? My last position was voluntary with a small organisation that merged into a larger company, my 2 positions before that were for companies that no longer exist.

My second question is, when I was younger and when I was working, I took advantage of doing a number of evening classes.

I'd like to find out if there are any courses I could do now, to add something up to date to my CV that will not cost me anything.

Last time I checked as my partner had just started working I was no longer eligible to do the course I was planning to start for free (preparing to teach in the life long learning sector).

My background is in admin and customer service I have A levels, NVQ's and a few other qualifications.

Thanks for your time, I really want to get onto this asap (already 10 days behind as I've been suffering with this awful flu)!

shewhoguards

Could you maybe get your manager from your voluntary position to be a reference for you, if they still work there?

Oldernotwiser

Definitely use voluntary work as a referee, it's as valuable as paid employment.

With the qualifications you already have you won't get any funding at this level but as you're on a low income you'd probably be able to get funding to study with the OU. Whether you want to do a full degree or just a course or two it's worth having a look at. It might be just the thing your CV needs.