Breaking the Barriers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work and stay on benefits?

Yes sometimes you can. However, some work can affect your benefits. An Employment Development Officer can advise you

One way of working and still being in receipt of benefits would be to begin Permitted work.
Permitted work will need to be agreed with your Employment Development Officer and Jobcentre Plus.

What if I start a job and it doesn’t work out?

An Employment Development Officer will carefully plan and work with you to help you start your job. We recognise that sometimes not every job works out. If this should happen to you continued support and guidance will be given to help you make the right decisions.

I am scared of interviews can you help?

The Breaking the Barriers Employment Service, Employment Development Officer will help you to prepare for interviews and can assist you by helping you to build up confidence, self esteem and assertiveness and offer ideas on interview techniques and overall preparation.

I don’t know how to do a CV can you help me?

A curriculum vitae (CV) is a vitally important document for anyone wishing to apply for new work. It is a record of what you have done throughout your working life. It is the way in which you can promote yourself to a future employer.

An Employment Development Officer will help you to complete a CV.

I don’t know what I want to do or whether I can handle it. Can you talk to me about it?

The Employment Development Officer (EDO) will work with you to establish what you can do, what you want to do and whether you can do it. The EDO will assist you to find the most appropriate job for you. Initially they may suggest a work trial or voluntary work, to build skills and confidence

Job Coaches are available to support you in preparing for and settling into the job if needed

I am in a job and having difficulty can you help me?

Yes, we can. An Employment Development Officer would assess your needs to help you to stay in employment or make alternative plans.