Carers and employment
Many carers have skills and experience which would be valuable to employers but they don't always see themselves that way.
Carers who have lost opportunities to train for employment might not see a way back in. Too often isolation and the caring role can undermine confidence and limit choices.
The Work and Families Act came into effect in April 2007. It gives unpaid / family carers the right to request flexible working.
This means carers have a legal right to request flexible working, and their employer will have to show that they have taken the request very seriously.
You can find out more by visiting the Carers UK website.
What help is available in Walsall?
Steps to Work and Work on the Horizon are two local organisations who can provide carers with help and support about the free training and employment opportunities available.
Steps to Work
Individuals seeking employment but who may need training to secure a job are assisted with courses, subsidies for clothing, travel, child care and equipment.
Practical work qualifications can be achieved during this project and job search support is offered at the project centre. All participants must have been unemployed for six months or longer or be part of a prescribed group. Training available includes LGV, PCV and fork lift truck courses which lead to licenses being gained and ultimately sustainable employment.
Contact us
For more information contact Steps to Work.
Steps to Work
Challenge Building
Hatherton Road
Walsall
WS1 1XS
Tel. 01922 627555
Fax. 01922 622133
Email. enquiries@stepstowork.walsall.org.uk
Work on the Horizon
Work on the Horizon is the one stop employment and training programme for residents of the Walsall New Deal for Communities area.
They deliver the Training for Carers project which offers a free package of support to full and part-time carers who may be considering some form of employment or training but may lack the relevant skills that employers are looking for.
The Training for Carers project will provide you with a range of support services to help you achieve your goals:
- Skills assessment
- Careers advice, guidance and job search support
- Motivation and confidence building
- Wide range of courses including manual andling, IT training, debt counselling, health and safety and first aid
- Ongoing support of the Work on the Horizon team
Contact us
Work on the Horizon
1 Queens Parade
High Street
Bloxwich WS3 2EX
Telephone 01922 496555
Email workonthehorizon@walsall.gov.uk
This page was last updated on 14 August 2008