Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi everyone, I'm currently unemployed and have been since January 2022, I'm really struggling to find work as I've only had two jobs before and I don't stand out at all to employers. I'm trying my absolute hardest and that simply isn't enough for receuiters out there. The reason I'm writing this, though, is about the Job Centre. Is there any additional support I can get from them - other than just being stuck on the Work and Heath programme? I have expressed my need for more help and got sent there, and they just treat me awfully the same as my work coach does and sends me home. I've since asked to be taken off the Work and Heath programme, and I was told I'm not allowed as I have to be signed up to some sort of additional programme since I've been unemployed for a certain amount of time.
I feel stuck in a never ending cycle of being told 'yep just keep doing what you're doing' or 'your efforts aren't good enough and we need to see more from you' but no actual help no matter how many times I ask. I was considering going to Citizen's Advice to ask for some guidance, but thought I would reach out here in case any one can relate.
If you can find a local charity that helps support people getting back into work, the people there are more likely to have time to spend with you, or in some areas there are gardening, repairing things or other volunteering programs which help people gain skills for work. Our local Jobcentre sometimes recommends going to one of these. It may be worth asking them as I am guessing if they are happy for you to do something like that to gain skills they might agree to this as an alternative to their programs.