Employment
Having a job offers all types of advantages, for example: financial income, social support, stability, status, a sense of identity, self esteem, confidence.
The recent economic crisis has caused all sorts of problems for both companies and individuals across Scotland with many people losing their jobs or facing redundancy. Unemployment can cause additional stress and so if you do find yourself in this situation it is important to maintain good communication with family and friends.
What you can do...
- If you are over 18 and find yourself unemployed or working less than 16 hours per week you may be entitled to claim benefits. This can be useful in covering the cost of rent or food while money is tight. Direct.gov.uk can help you find out more about claiming benefits or you could also visit your local job centre.
- Be open to taking on any type of job which you are able to do. This will help with finding a source of income and don't forget you can always continue to look for another job which you might enjoy more.
- Tell people you are looking for work, you may find that someone you know has seen an advert which may appeal to you.
- Consider voluntary work as an option. This can offer an opportunity to meet new people, improve your skills and will also be good for your CV.
- Ask a family member or friend to read over your CV and/or application forms. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can really help you to see where improvements can be made. A member of staff at the job centre or other employment agency may also be able to help you with this.
- If you have been made redundant you may consider retraining. The Shetland College may give you a starting point.
Useful links
Related Issues
People may experience issues with employment due to other problems in their lives or on the other hand may be more vulnerable to other issues because they are unemployed. The following topics may be of interest to you:
Information & Education
Gaining information or learning about something is often a good first step to tackling your problems. Learn More
Useful links
Get into learning, build your confidence, meet new people, and get qualified. Find out how you can develop your knowledge and skills through an adult learning class. Drop into the Old Library at Hillhead, Lerwick or email: adult.learning@shetland.gov.uk for more information
adult.learning@shetland.gov.uk
The Condition Management Programme aims to support individuals on incapacity benefit to help them manage their health condition and, when realistic and practicable, help them refocus on their potential to work. The Condition Management Programme is available through the Job Centre or you can contact Jane Macaulay for more details.
jane.macaulay@nhs.net
This is a government run website which delivers information and practical advice about public services, including taxes, benefits, legal rights, health and wellbeing to name but a few.
www.direct.gov.uk
Disability Shetland aims to support the efforts of disabled people to realise their full potential in all areas of life. The organization works to promote, provide and encourage the development of services and facilities for people with disabilities, including a barrier-free environment. Tel: (01595) 743900
www.shetlandcommunities.org/disability-shetland
Healthy Working Lives provides free information on maintaining health in the workplace. The website contains advice on how to minimize risks at work and tips on keeping yourself healthy
www.healthyworkinglives.com/
Jobcentre Plus is an executive agency of the Department for Work and Pensions. It provides services that support people of working age from welfare into work, and helps employers to fill their vacancies. Phone: 01595 732050 Address: Charlotte House, Commercial Road, Lerwick, ZE1 0LQ
www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk
The Moving On Project is a charity organisation which helps people with health problems and/or disabilities to find their way back to work. Moving On can help you to assess your individual needs and a support worker will help you to access any work experience or training that you need. The website features an online application form for both clients and volunteers. For further details of the project contact: movingon@shetland.org
www.shetland-communities.org.uk/moving-on/
Shetland College is Scotland's most northerly partner within UHI Millennium Institute and offers students in Shetland the opportunity of studying further, higher and degree level courses. It is now possible to study courses in Shetland which previously would have only been available if you were prepared to leave Shetland
www.shetland.uhi.ac.uk
The charity’s mission is to “develop voluntary action in Shetland by providing services to established voluntary organisations and provide support, advice and services to new projects”. If you are interested in finding out what voluntary service are available you can call 01595 743900 or email vas@shetland.org If you are interested in becoming a volunteer and are under 26 years old you can contact Gwen Williamson gwen.williamson@shetland.org or if you are over 26 years old you can contact Kathleen Williamson Kathleen.williamson@shetland.org
www.va-shetland.org.uk/
WRVS is an age positive charity that offers a range of practical services to help and support older people to live well, maintain their independence and play a part in their local community. The WRVS work in partnership with other charities and organisations, local authorities and the NHS, supporting communities throughout England, Scotland and Wales to be strong and cohesive. You can contact the Shetland WRVS on 01595 743915 or visit their website
www.wrvs.org.uk
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