Frequently Asked Questions
Will my benefits be affected by starting work?
If someone starts voluntary work their benefits should not be affected, but they will need to contact the Department for Work and Pensions and make them aware. If someone starts paid employment it is likely that their benefits will be affected, unless the work falls within the rules of Permitted Work.
JobcentrePlus or supporting services can do a “better off calculation” for them which will work out which benefits they may still be entitled to.
What happens if someone starts work and they lose their job?
They can re-apply for their benefits and if they are supported by a local service, this service may provide support and guidance. They may also support the individual in deciding what they would like to do next, e.g. find a job in the same area of work, try a different type of job altogether or to do some training.
How do I refer to a local service?
There are various local services and their details and referral processes can be found on the Local Services and Support page.
What support is available once someone is in work?
This depends on whether they were supported by a local service to find the job. These services provide different levels of support, although they all aim to meet both the individual’s and the employer’s needs at any given time.
