Jobcentre Plus Help & Support For Young People

See how the Jobcentre can help young people get jobs, training, work experience and other opportunities.

Are you wondering what the Jobcentre Plus is and what it does? It’s something you can use – and we’ll help you find out how it can support you.
We’ll separate the myths from the facts, and explore how Jobcentre Plus can help you with your next steps, especially if you’re looking for work.

Jobcentre Plus: What is it?

What is Jobcentre Plus?

Jobcentre Plus is an organisation that helps people in the UK find work. Government-funded, it’s part of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Where is my local Jobcentre Plus?

There are over 600 Jobcentre Plus offices all over the UK!

Find your local Jobcentre by clicking the button below.

Who can use Jobcentre Plus?

If you’re of working age (that usually means 18+*) you can use Jobcentre Plus. Graduates, this includes you! You also need to be looking for work, jobs or paid training.

*See FAQs for more information on how old you have to be to use Jobcentre Plus.

Find Your Local Jobcentre Plus

How can Jobcentre Plus help me?

1. Find Jobs & Opportunities

Your work coach will help you with your job search, and you can search through vacancies using Jobpoints (touch-screen computers at the Jobcentre).

2. Free Training

Jobcentres offer free training to help you with CV writing, job applications and interviews. Check your local Jobcentre Plus centre and follow your county’s Jobcentre Plus social media account for up to date details.

3. Financial Support

You’ll most likely need to go to the Jobcentre if you’re receiving benefits for financial support while looking for work. There are many different kind of benefits available to support you when you need it.

4. Find Training Opportunities

The Jobcentre doesn’t just help you find jobs – you can also look for work experience and apprenticeships to build your experience and get free qualifications.

5. Job fairs

Jobcentre Plus can give you information about local job fairs. A job fair is an event where people looking for work can meet with potential employers. They’re particularly useful for young people and those looking for entry-level jobs, but anyone can go along.

Jobcentre Plus Advice for Young Jobseekers

See all

Jobcentre Plus FAQs

*How old do I have to be to use Jobcentre Plus?

To work with 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.

Is Jobcentre Plus just for those who are unemployed?

Jobcentre Plus only provides personalised support to those claiming benefits. This means most people who use the job centre are unemployed (or even in education/training), 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.

Can I use Jobcentre Plus if I have graduated from University?

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.

I feel anxious about going to Jobcentre Plus. Will they judge me?

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.

Can Jobcentre Plus help me start a business?

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.

How do I register with Jobcentre Plus?

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.

Where is my local Jobcentre Plus?

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.