Injury, disabilities or health problems can come into someone’s life at any time, often when least expected. However, there’s plenty of support available whether people want to return to work, stay in their current job or find paid work for the first time. Every year, Jobcentre Plus helps more than 100,000 people with a disability or health condition back to work.

Walking through the door of a Jobcentre office can be daunting first time round for some people. However, there is all kinds of support and help available to people who want to get back to work, this may include financial help.

Jobcentre Plus is taking its help into the community over the coming weeks. Every Tuesday afternoon from 27 November to 18 December 2007 you will find Jobcentre Plus staff at the Healthy Living Centre, Stewartville Street Partick from 1.30 to 3.30pm.
 
Anne Marie Kemp, adviser service manager for Partick Jobcentre Plus said: “We are very keen to help and support people back into work especially those who have had an injury or a health condition. If you don’t feel ready to start work immediately, we can work with you on a plan to take the first steps to overcome your barriers and work towards entering employment. Come along and meet the staff who would be happy to help you.”

One person who recently found success thanks to the help he received from Jobcentre Plus is Edward Jones, a former security guard. Edward said: “At the age of 50 I thought ‘who would want me?’. I wasn’t looking forward to going to the Jobcentre but I’m glad I did.  My adviser in the Jobcentre managed to sort out various courses, job applications and help with my benefits. The whole range of help is amazing. I’m now working as a trainer, I’ve got my life back, got my self esteem back, got a job.”

Anyone interested in finding out more should call Partick Jobcentre on 0141 337 7173