Funding for skills to get into work

Darlingwolf

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone knew of any funding / grants available for courses, as I am looking to get a qualification in Nail Technician.
My advisor at Work Programme saw some of my work, and were impressed, suggested a 5 day course for £395, but was also informed they know of no grant that would cover it...Helpful!!

Im currently on JSA, Unemployed for over 12 months, and 36.

I know if I had the qualification, I with my creative flair, and skills I have already, I could either get a job quickly, or start my own business.

I know the Jobcentre fund people to do SIA and FLT Licences, it baffles me how they wont fund this though, where I could potentially be in work and off benefits within weeks.
I could do a 36 week college course, (which I could get funded, whilst on benefits) but 36 weeks of Jobseekers allowance, and the costs of the course, it dosent make sense or add up.

Im too old for an apprenticeship, and Its not level 3 or 4 so as far as I can see, im out for a 24+ Learning Loan, I just feel like im banging my head against a brick wall.

I have so much enthusiasm to do this, but no money myself, and seems as if no backing to get people like me the skills to get off the dole.

Can anyone suggest anything or help with any knowledge?

AP007

The WP have all funding for courses, so ask them

Darlingwolf

It was WP that told me about the course, and the advisor that told me there was no funding for it, and I would have to pay £395 myself.

Its so frustrating. I hate not working, and would love to get a job in something i enjoy.

saintjammyswine

Speak to your local FE College that provides Nail courses. Many colleges (not all sadly but many) have access to a fund called ESF (European Social Fund) SSU (Skills Support for Unemployment). This is a fund which helps people on active benefits (JSA or ESA (WRAG)) to gain skills needed to re-enter employment.

It is not a grant in that you wont see any money to pay for a course, it is a source of funding for the college so that they put you on the course (there is a lot of paperwork for them to do with you) and then claim the funding related to the length of your course.

It does not take into account previous qualifications, only that the course you are on will help you back into work.

Regarding WP providers, most of them do not have much money for training & courses and rely on the funding provided through schemes like this and central funding from the SFA (Skills Funding Agency).