You do not need to be looking for work during the coronavirus pandemic and you can still receive benefits without making appointments. Find out more about staying safe and using Jobcentre Plus.
Can I still use the Job Centre during Coronavirus?
You cannot attend the Job Centre in person during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is to protect you as well as their staff – we all have a responsibility to abide by the lockdown rules and stay home as much as possible.
If you’re already claiming benefits, you do not have to go to the Job Centre in person. This applies even if attending regularly was previously part of your agreement.
You can still apply for benefits without appointments
If you’ve lost your job due to Coronavirus and need financial support, you can still apply for Universal Credit. You should apply online and you will not need to make or go to an appointment at the Job Centre. The DWP will contact you if they have further information or want to discuss your claim.
You are NOT required to look for work during the pandemic
If you’ve been receiving support from the Job Centre, you may still be able to keep in touch with your Work Coach by phone. Remember: you are not required to be looking for work at this time.
You CAN still look for work if you choose to
If you still wish to look for work, many essential businesses such as supermarkets are still hiring at the moment. You can check their websites directly, or keep using online jobs boards including the DWP’s Find a Job service.
But whatever you do, please remember that your first priority is to stay safe, and help protect others, for as long as the pandemic lasts.
Stay safe, and good luck.
