What is the Restart Scheme?

Our Restart Scheme provides enhanced support to help those currently claiming Universal Credit to enter sustained employment.

Based in Greater Manchester, our Restart Scheme is delivered by industry experts with experience in employability, training, justice and recruitment.

In this short blog, our team provide answers to the most common questions they’re asked about the Restart Scheme, and explain how they can help you re-enter employment if you’re currently out of work.

What is the Restart scheme?

The Restart Scheme is a government funded initiative that provides you with up to 12 months of enhanced support, to help you find a job in your local area.

The main benefit of our Restart Scheme is to help build your confidence, wellbeing, skills and motivation so that you’re ready to succeed in sustained employment. You’ll have access to additional training and re-skilling opportunities, as well as a package of holistic support.

You’ll also be supported by your advisor and the business development team to apply for vacancies suitable to your requirements, amongst a wide range of further benefits, such as a modern learning environment that’s fully equipped with job searching facilities.

Where do the appointments take place?

Most of your appointments will take place face-to-face, in-person with one of our dedicated advisors.

However, we can also arrange and offer appointments online or via telephone.

Do you provide a PC, or access to other IT equipment?

Our offices are fully equipped with all the technology that you’ll need to get the most out of the Restart Scheme.

This includes any support you required with job applications, writing or updating a CV and using the internet.

Do I still need to attend any Job Centre appointments?

Yes – our Restart Scheme is entirely separate to any Jobcentre Plus appointments. You should continue to use and attend the Jobcentre as and when required.

Do I have to be claiming certain benefits to join the Restart Scheme?

Yes – the Restart Scheme is only available to those who are currently claiming Universal Credit within the Intensive Worksearch Regime.

How often will I meet with my advisor?

You will have contact with your dedicated advisor at least every two weeks, with regular face-to-face meetings.

You can also contact your advisor at any time in-between these meetings.

What happens if/when I get a job?

We love nothing more than seeing one of our candidates secure employment.

However, we recognise that it can be a daunting experience, especially if you’ve been out of work for a significant amount of time.

This is why we make sure your advisor is still available to you to help you settle into your new role.

You’ll also still receive access to our online portal for ongoing learning and support.

Can you help with my travel or childcare costs?

Travelling to appointments

We will refund your travel costs to and from pre-arranged appointments, using the most cost-effective method available. To receive your refund, please provide your Restart Scheme Advisor with a receipt for your travel journey.

Should you have any questions or concerns please ensure you discuss these with your Restart Scheme Advisor before incurring the expense.

If you have concerns about using a particular method of transport, or if you need some more information, please contact your Restart Scheme Advisor.

Travelling to employer interviews

We will support you with reasonable requests for travel to interviews where this is not already covered by Department for Work and Pensions or Jobcentre Plus policies.

Please remember to always discuss this with your Restart Scheme Advisor in advance of the interview so we can advise you.

Childcare expenses

We will always aim to book appointments and activities, where possible, around any childcare commitments. If this is not possible, we will provide funding for childcare for your child(ren) up to the age of 16 that reside with you, when you undertake Restart Scheme activities.

It is your responsibility to find childcare that is registered with Ofsted or a carer accredited under the Childcare Approval Scheme. Reasonable expenses towards providing childcare will be provided.

Replacement care

If you spend a significant proportion of your life providing unpaid support to relatives, partners or friends who are ill, frail, disabled or have a mental health or a substance misuse problem, and this as a barrier to you returning to work, it is important to share this with your Restart Scheme Advisor, who will aim to book appointments and activities around the care you provide.

If this is not possible, we will provide funds for replacement care. It is your responsibility to organise the care and ensure it is provided by a Local Authority Registered Provider, a Local Authority Preferred Provider, or a recognised care organisation within the local area.

Interested in joining our Restart Scheme?

For more information about our Restart Scheme, please contact us by calling 0161 474 7603, or send an email to: [email protected]

The B2W Group has a fresh approach to transforming businesses by up-skilling their current staff or bringing an apprentice into the business to add a dynamic and dedicated individual to the team. All of our courses are available through various streams of government funding so are a cost-effective way to provide high-quality training within the workplace.

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Contact

0161 474 7603
[email protected]

Floor 4,Building 4,
Universal Square,
Devonshire Street,
Manchester,
M12 6JH