Business Bolton

Jobcentre Plus Work Trials

A Work Trial could be the solution to your recruitment needs.

• Does an interview always give you the right person?

• Do you have a possible candidate for the job, but are not sure if they are able to do the work?

• Do you sometimes want more time before deciding whether to employ someone?

What is a work trial ?

• A Work Trial is a short period a person works covering an actual job vacancy. It is for a jobseeker who is currently in receipt of benefit.

• A work trial can last from 1-15 working days and during this time the jobseeker will remain on benefits.

• A work trial is suitable for any job over 16 hours per week and lasting at least 3 months.

• A work trial will not cost you anything and can save you considerable time. You will not be responsible for Tax and National Insurance until you are sure you have the right person.

Work trials give you:

• A chance to test out a potential employee's aptitude for the job.

• The opportunity to check that a potential employee will fit in with your existing workforce.

• Time to decide before making a final decision.

From an employer:

"Sainsbury's are opening a new store in Westhoughton in spring 2010. We approached the Jobcentre as we wanted to work in partnership with the local Jobcentre with our " You Can" policy in mind.

We held an initial meeting and we were really impressed with what  Jobcentre Plus had on offer for me as an employer.

The Jobcentre held a two week training session all around health & safety, customer service etc. We were invited to the training session and delivered a presentation and also held a Q & A session at the end.

We interviewed over 20 candidates for 9 positions and 8 have been successful. These have all displayed a positive work attitude and we even found a skilled confectioner amongst the unemployed!!

We also offered a two week Work Trial for all the direct hires. I would not hesitate in recommending this route to employing people and would definitely use it again in the future."

Ways to get in touch

If you have a suitable vacancy a Work Trial can help you make the right choice. Work Trials must be arranged and agreed through Jobcentre Plus.

For more information, please contact the Employer Engagement Team on 0161 654 2073 or click the link below.