If you’re unemployed, are at risk of becoming unemployed or simply want a career change, here’s some advice to help with your job search. 

Job searching

You can use the usual job search websites such as Indeed or Monster but you should also register on the GOV.UK Find a job service if you’re receiving Job Seeker’s Allowance or have applied for it.    

If you’re interested in working for Your Housing Group, please visit our careers page to see what vacancies we have. 

Once you’re ready to search for jobs, you might need to brush up on your application and interview skills. The National Careers Service has some great advice along with suggestions to help you plan your career. 

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are for people of all abilities who want to get into work and gain skills, experience and qualifications on the job. Some apprenticeships include further educational training such as degree courses. 

To find out what’s available in your area, visit the Government's National Apprenticeship Service website. 

Skills and career advice

A change in career 

Looking for a change of career but don’t know where to start? The National Careers Service has some useful advice and guidance on how to plan for a new career.  

It also has a handy skills assessment tool that can help you identify any additional training or qualifications you need to succeed in your chosen career. You can even search for courses and training in your area. 

The Prince's Trust also helps people aged 13-30 get into work, education and training. Visit their website to see what they can do for you. 

Volunteering 

If you aren’t ready to plan your career yet and would just like to try out different types of work then  volunteering  can give you an insight into what a job entails. 

To find out what’s available in your area, visit the National Council for Voluntary Organisations website. 

Young people  

If you’ re a young person aged 15-17, the National Skills Service is the perfect opportunity to build skills for work and life. It offers programmes and events in your local community, outside of term time, to help learn the skills that employers value, to better yourself and to achieve amazing things. 

Help getting online

Most jobs are advertised on the internet, and applications (such as uploading CVs) are also done online – so it’s important that you know how to do it. 

  • To learn how to use the internet, or improve your digital skills, for job applications, sending e-mails, doing online shopping and more, Learn My Way offers an excellent range of courses. 
  • Online Centres Network has a search tool to help you find a local centre that offers free or low-cost computer courses. 
  • If you don’t have access to the internet at home, check whether your local library or community centre offers free internet access with computer use.  
  • If you have a tablet, laptop or smartphone with Wi-Fi you can also take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots around the UK.   
  • For low-cost, refurbished laptops, tablets and smartphones, check out getonline@home.

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