Website of the UK government

Lone parents

If you are a lone parent and worried about your finances, need help with childcare, or you're thinking about work but don't know where to start, there is help and advice available.

Important changes to benefits for lone parents

On 24 November 2008 changes were introduced to Income Support for certain lone parents.

These changes mean that your entitlement to Income Support may stop when your youngest child reaches the age of 12 if you are only claiming it because you are a lone parent.

Instead, with the support of Jobcentre Plus you will have to make a claim for another benefit and if you are able will be encouraged to look for paid work.

This is one of several changes to the benefit system to help people get the skills for work and move into paid employment.

• Jobcentre Plus help and advice for lone parents Opens new window
• Changes to income support for lone parents Opens new window

Disabled people, people with health conditions and carers

If you have a disability, have a health condition, have been seriously injured, or are caring for someone, there is support available to you. There is help and advice if you're unable to work, looking for work or may be looking for work in the future.

• Disabled people and employment (disabled people section)
• Disabled people and carers Opens new window
• Caring for someone and working (caring for someone section)

Leaving school or college

Moving from school, college or university into work can be a big step. Even if you have a firm idea of where you want to be, the best way to get there is not always clear. But there are lots of opportunities and help available, including getting the experience you need and financial help for training.

• A guide for people leaving school and college Opens new window

Over 50s

If you're out of work, it can take time to find another job, regardless of your age. However, there are specialist programmes, resources and information available to the over 50's to help you find work or learn new skills.

• Looking for work (over 50s section)

Out of work

Whatever your circumstances, if you are looking for a job or wondering how you can increase the chances of getting the work you want, there's advice and support. The Out of Work Guide includes practical help on ways into work and financial support when looking for work.

• A guide for people who are out of work Opens new window

More useful links

• Benefits and help when looking for work (money, tax and benefits section)
• Jobseekers Allowance (money, tax and benefits section)