Q: Will I lose my benefits
if I join one of Seetec’s programmes?
A: No, you will continue to receive your
existing benefits.
Q: I don’t know if I will
be able to cope financially if I get a job?
A: Before you start to look for a job, your
adviser will provide you with a 'better-off calculation' which will
help you understand how your benefits will be affected if you work
full or part time, and whether you may be entitled to any working
tax credits. Other financial assistance maybe available such as a
one-off back to work bonus or extended payment of Housing Benefit
and Council Tax Benefit after you start work.
Q: I have a disability and
am worried about starting work and whether I can manage work and my
health condition.
A: Your Adviser will continue to offer you
support and advice even whilst you are in work, so that any issues
or concerns you may have about your job can be easily and quickly
resolved. If your job doesn’t work out, there are protection
schemes available that will allow you to re-claim benefits; your
adviser will speak to you about your options.
Q: I haven’t worked for
over 10 years and don’t think that anyone will employ
me.
A: With the right skills and a boost in
confidence, you will be just as employable as someone who has
worked for the last 10 years. Seetec can provide you with work
related training and qualifications, soft skills training,
confidence and self esteem building sessions and much more. Some
employers even provide work placements which give you the
opportunity to prove that you can do the job, which may result in
permanent employment.
Q: English isn’t my first
language and I’m having difficulty finding a job because my English
is poor, can you help me?
A: We can help you with an ESOL (English for
Speakers of other Languages) course to improve your English. The
courses cover speaking and listening, reading and writing,
vocabulary, punctuation and grammar. Your adviser will also be able
to assist you with completing forms and communicating with other
support agencies or organisations.
Q: I would like to return
to work but I’m on my own and have two young children. Can you help
me with childcare costs?
A: Seetec can provide you with details of your
local childcare facilities and will be able to assist you with your
costs whilst you attend one of our programmes. Once you have found
work, you may be entitled to working tax credits which includes a
specific childcare element which can help with up to 80 per cent of
your eligible childcare costs. Also, some employers provide
flexible working allowing you to work around school times and
holidays.
Q: I have been told by my
Jobcentre Plus office that I have to attend one of your centres or
I will lose my benefit, is this correct?
A: Some Government programmes that Seetec offer
are mandatory and non-attendance may result in your benefits being
stopped or reduced. Your local Jobcentre Plus Adviser will inform
you if you have to attend one of Seetec’s employment and training
centres.