UK Jobcentres Launch Free Careers Advice for Non-Benefit Claimants

People across England who are not claiming benefits can now receive free careers advice through Jobcentres, according to the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This new support aims to help individuals find work, change careers, advance in their jobs, and develop new skills.

The DWP announced this change on Wednesday, following the merger of the National Careers Service into the department. Around 500 qualified careers advisers have joined the DWP to provide this service. They will offer careers information, advice, and guidance alongside existing employment and skills support available at Jobcentres.

Support can be accessed online, by phone, or in person at Jobcentres. Face-to-face appointments are expected to be available later this month. The DWP noted that qualified advisers will focus on helping people who face greater challenges in finding work or learning. This includes young people not in education, employment, or training, those under 18 who are not in school or college, and disabled individuals.

Minister for Employment Andrew Western emphasized the importance of providing everyone with the opportunity to find meaningful work and build a career. He stated that bringing careers advice into Jobcentres will help connect fragmented services and enable thousands to access comprehensive support.

The government highlighted that these changes are part of broader reforms to offer more personalized employment support. This includes a £2.5 billion investment in youth employment initiatives, which aim to create nearly one million opportunities for young people to earn and learn, as well as £3.5 billion in support for disabled individuals and those with long-term health conditions.

People can access careers information and advice through the DWP’s online resources or its freephone service. Additionally, the DWP’s Work Hub, an AI-powered assistant, will provide 24-hour guidance on career development, job searching, and applications.