Jobcentre Plus Help & Support For Young People

To get help from Jobcentre Plus, you need to be claiming benefits. Usually, the minimum age to claim Universal Credit is 18, however in some circumstances the minimum age is lowered to 16 if someone:

1. has limited capability for work
2. is awaiting an assessment to determine whether they have limited capability for work and has a statement given by a registered medical practitioner which provides that the person is not fit for work
3. has regular and substantial caring responsibilities for a severely disabled person
4. is responsible for a child
5. is a member of a couple the other member of which is responsible for a child or a qualifying young person (but only where the other member meets all the basic conditions of UC entitlement)
6. is pregnant, and it is 11 weeks or less before the expected week of confinement, or was pregnant and it is 15 weeks or less since the date of confinement
7. is without parental support

If you are a care leaver, 3, 6 and 7 will not apply to you.

Jobcentre Plus only provides personalised support to those claiming benefits. This means most people who use the job centre are out of work or have low income, and they get support from a work coach with their job search as it’s a part of the commitment for receiving financial support. You can explore what the financial support is there for and if you’re eligible here.

Jobcentre Plus isn’t the only place for employment support. There is a lot of information out there to help you – starting with Youth Employment UK. Take a look at the Careers Hub to explore your options and get work ready.

Yes! Many people think Jobcentre Plus is only for people without a University degree, but that’s not the case. Graduates can also apply for financial support and get help looking for work too.

Jobcentre Plus is there to help you, not judge you. Most of the staff you’ll meet will be kind and understanding, even if they are busy. They understand how hard it can be to find the right job, and many of them have been exactly where you are.

Feeling anxious or nervous is normal, but just remember that THERE IS NO SHAME in struggling to find work. The climate for all jobseekers, and especially young people, is really tough right now. Even the most seasoned professionals have likely been through periods of unemployment or job insecurity. Going to your Job Centre means you’re actively making an effort to find work – that’s a big deal.

Yes – Jobcentre Plus can help get you started and point you in the right direction. If you’re interested in setting up your own business, talk to your Jobcentre Plus Work Coach. They will listen to you talk about your business idea. They can help you find out what kind of funding you’ll be eligible for, and support you to move from benefits to self employment.

You must be claiming benefits to recieve personalised Jobcentre Plus support. You can apply for benefits online using the government website. You can get help with your benefits claim by contacting Jobcentre Plus, and using the contact details provided. Be aware that there are different contact details for Universal Credit and New Style Employment and Support Allowance, which can all be found here. You can also call to submit a claim if claiming online is a barrier for you.

It’s important to note that Jobcentre usually provides appointments for claimants, therefore you may not be allowed to turn up and enter without one. This may differ across Jobcentres. If you want to submit a claim in person, it is recommended to contact the Jobcentre using the link above to find out more.

You can find Jobcentre Plus offices across the UK – in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. You can find your local Jobcentre Plus office by using this search tool.