Work Trial

"After six months looking for work I had a chance to prove what I could do - through a Work Trial. My Jobcentre found me work with an employer who was happy to see what I could do. Once I got a foot in the door I knew I could show them."

"A Work Trial is:
A trial in an actual job vacancy with an employer."

During a Work Trial you will :

• get the chance to try out a job for up to 15 working days and show an employer that you are the right person to fill it;
• continue to receive any benefits you are entitled to (eg Jobseeker's Allowance, Incapacity Benefit, Income Support)
• be paid travel expenses of up to £10 per day and meal expenses of up to £3.00 per day.

If you decide to take up a Work Trial someone from the Jobcentre Plus office or the Jobcentre will make arrangements for you to continue receiving benefit and will deal with any queries you have.

If you are made a job offer at the end of the Work Trial, the decision to accept does not automatically mean an end to all financial assistance. The Jobcentre Plus office or Jobcentre will be able to advise you about possible 'in work' benefits.

You will normally be eligible for a Work Trial if you are aged 25 years or over and have been unemployed for six months or more (although there are some exceptions to this).

For further information about Work Trials and how they can help you, contact your local Jobcentre Plus office or Jobcentre. Your eligibility will always be checked before you start a Work Trial.

Contact Jobcentre Plus