Starting or returning to work

It is important to get specialist advice if you are starting work to make sure that you do not miss out on extra help.

There are many government schemes to help people who are looking for work or have recently started work.

These schemes are constantly changing, so it is best to contact your local Jobcentre Plus office for latest news on what is currently available.

Advice for unemployed Greenwich residents

If you are interested in work or training, Greenwich Local Labour and Business (GLLaB) provides information, advice and guidance on local job opportunities to unemployed Greenwich residents and residents under threat of redundancy.

GLLaB also provides training and work experience schemes to help you gain the necessary qualifications and skills to get into work.

Claiming benefits when working

When you start working, there are a range of benefits you may be able to claim to help ease the transition from benefits to work.

If you have been claiming Income Support,  income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Incapacity Benefit or Severe Disablement Allowance for at least six months, you may be able to claim four weeks' extra:

• Housing Benefit
• Council Tax Benefit
• mortgage interest payments.

You must expect the job to last for at least five weeks. You can also claim if you stop getting benefits because you have increased your working hours.

How do I claim?

You must tell the offices that pay these benefits and Greenwich Revenue and Benefits team within four weeks of starting work or increasing your hours. Payments should then be made automatically.

Additional benefits

You may also be able to claim:

• a Job Grant of up to £250
• an In-Work Credit of £60 a week for lone parents with children under 16, paid for a year - ask your lone parent adviser for more details.

Check this section for other help you may be entitled to, or download the Benefits and Work leaflet for details of other help you may be able to claim if you are starting work.

More information

Contact the Welfare Rights Service for more help and advice.