JSA - Work Program in 6 months??

smithson5

Hi

I've been claiming JSA for 7 months now, and I'd like to go onto the Work Program (WP), as I could really do with some extra support/a mentor/advise to help me get a job. I just feel like I'm not getting enough support from the Jobcentre and I'm getting nowhere fast on my own.

Would a WP give me the extra support I'm looking for? Are they good at helping you find a job? Or are these Work Programs just another waste of time? I've heard both good and bad reports about them so I'm not sure what to think.

I asked someone in my Jobcentre today about going onto one and she said she's not sure but thinks I'd have to be on JSA for 12 months before I can be referred to a WP, is this right? I thought it was 6 months, then someone else said you can refer yourself at any time you want...all different people telling me different things.

I can't get an appointment with my personal advisor for 3 weeks so I won't know till then, but is the Work Program a waste of time anyway? And could I go onto it after claiming JSA for 7 months?

Many thanks, richard

xylophone

https://www.gov.uk/moving-from-benefits-to-work/job-search-programmes

busy_mom_2

You can be referred to WP at any point voluntary, but once referred it will be mandatory you continue to attend for 2 years. You cannot chose which provider you go to, the system will randomly allocate you.
You will still sign every two weeks and attend as often as they want/ you want. You have no access to any JCP funding or courses once referred.
What exactly would you like from JCP? Have you spoken to your adviser or adviser manager if you feel your adviser is not helping you?

ArtoDeeto

If you are under 25 it's 9 months, 25 or over 12 months.

Out of interest what has your adviser done to help you? Or not done to help you?

princessdon

You can do that how much use is another matter - can you ask friends family or even someone on a forum like this one for mentoring advice?