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Adult return to work provision

The Department for Employment and Learning offers a number of services and programmes to help unemployed people, particularly people who have been unemployed for a long time, people with disabilities and others who may need extra help in finding work.

Steps to Work

On 29 September 2008, the Department for Employment and Learning introduced Steps to Work, its new approach to helping people to find work. The programme assists people in finding employment and is a flexible way to help you with your individual employment and training needs. When taking part in Steps to Work you will be allocated an adviser who will provide support and guidance to help decide which opportunities best meet your individual needs.

Pathways to Work

If you get Employment and Support Allowance, Incapacity Benefit or Income Support on health grounds, Pathways to Work could help you return to work. You will get tailored support from a personal adviser, access to job support and NHS rehabilitation and you may also be entitled to Return to Work Credit.

If you would like to volunteer to participate in Pathways to Work, you should contact the local Jobs and Benefits office or Jobcentre in your area.

Apprenticeships

There are all types of apprenticeships for all kinds of people all giving you real qualifications, real skills and a real wage. Once you sign up to ApprenticeshipsNI you will begin to get the training and qualifications necessary for your career and what employers want. Don't worry about the cost, ApprenticeshipsNI will ensure the full cost of your directed training is met. Once you complete you will have formal qualifications that are recognised by employers worldwide.

Bridge to Employment

Bridge to employment is a pre-employment training programme that helps you (aged 18+) to find a job if you are unemployed whatever your experience of work. Employers use the Bridge to Employment programme to find and train unemployed people to fill current job vacancies. Vacancies are advertised for a limited period in the newspapers, community organisations and in the local Jobs& Benefits offices/JobCentres. Application is voluntary via your local Jobs & Benefits office/JobCentre.

Essential Skills

Are your reading, writing, maths or ICT skills stopping you from getting a job? Do you find it hard to read instructions, fill out forms or use ICT equipment? Don't worry. You are not alone. Research has shown that up to one third of the working population have difficulties with these skills.

If you wish to improve your skills a free essential skills course may help.

For further information:

Training for Success

Training for Success is designed for young people aged 16-18 (up to 24 years for thoes requiring additional support) and provides training to give the tools and skills needed to get a job. Training will provide you with the relevant qualifications as well as the required personal and behavourial skills to progress into work.