Work options

Voluntary work                                                              
Voluntary work is a good starting point for getting into work as you can try out different jobs and get a feel for what you are interested in. Voluntary work may lead to improved chances of getting a part-time or full-time job. You are allowed to do voluntary work while claiming Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance and Incapacity Benefit and usually you will have any expenses paid. For some people voluntary work is a suitable alternative to work because you are able to keep your benefits.

Part Time                                                                        
There is no specific number of hours that makes work full or part-time. Part-time is generally considered to be less than 35 hours work per week. It has the advantage that you will be able to ease yourself into work more than if you took on a full-time role. Part-time work may also leave you with the flexibility to go to therapy appointments during the day, do some additional training or look after your children. However, you should get some expert advice about how work will affect your benefits. 

Full Time                                                                          
If you are getting certain welfare benefits, any work done over 16 hours will be classed as full time. However more generally full time work is seen as being around 35 hours per week. If you are returning to full-time work after a period of illness ask yourself what were the stressors that caused your mental illness. If any of these were work related try to reduce them. For some people a change of role or job would be advisable. Once again, you should consider the money you have coming in on benefits and what the benefits cover, the change in benefits once you start working and any additional costs associated with work. The Citizens Advice can calculate whether you are better or worse off.

Apprenticeships                                                             
If you have an idea about the type of career that you want but do not have the experience, skills or qualifications, an apprenticeship maybe a good option for you. An apprenticeship will give you the opportunity to learn on the job, gain nationally recognised qualifications and earn a small wage. You can get an apprenticeship in a wide range of sectors.

Employment projects                                                   
The work done by employment projects varies but is usually done in a sheltered workshop and will usually be largely people with mental health problems. A project maybe very basic but this suits some people. There will be ongoing support from a professional caseworker. You should check beforehand but this type of work is unlikely to affect your benefits. The availability of these will depend on services in you local area, speak to your care co-ordinator to find out what (if any) projects are available in your area.