Help & Advice
We hope that you have found the information helpful so far. If you haven’t found what you are looking for please feel free to get in touch or explore some of the other, suggested sites and the FAQS:
Safeguarding
Frequently asked questions
I can’t afford my weekly travel costs, is there support available?
Yes, did you know that young people 16-21 can save 30% of their travel costs. Please go to My Travel Pass for more information and how to apply.
Will entering education or training affect my or my parents’ benefits if I still live at home?
Some educational courses will affect benefits, particularly full time educational courses. It is best to talk to your chosen course supplier to find out. However there are employment and training providers on this website that will not affect your benefits if you access their support.
How long are the training courses?
There are a number of training courses and qualifications you will be able to achieve with a number providers. It is best to check which provider / providers suit the pathway you have chosen best by searching on the directory page.
I am unsure about my options or what I want to do?
If this is the case, your first port of call should be Careers Wales who can advise you of your options and provide information about the support that is available from them and other Education / Training / Employment providers in the Blaenau Gwent area. Some employment support providers even run taster sessions such as HGV, dumper / 360 excavator driving experiences and even call centre sessions.
I know what job I want to do, but I need training / certificates / qualifications to progress into employment?
There are employment / training providers who will help you access the training you want and support you to achieve your employment aspirations.
I need to complete a particular training course to get the job I want but can’t afford to pay the fee?
There is funding available through a number of providers who can source the training you need so there will be no cost to you if you are eligible.
I suffer from low confidence and don’t think I am ready to enter employment at this point?
Don’t worry, there is plenty of help from providers who will work with you in building your confidence until you feel you are ready to make the next step.
How long will I have to sign up with a provider?
Many of the support programmes are voluntary, so you are not tied in. You are able to stop engaging with a provider whenever you want.
Can I have support from more than one provider?
Yes, depending on how the provider is funded and depending on your needs. In some circumstances, more than one provider will be able to work and support you at the same time, although it is important that you let the mentor / adviser know who else you are getting support from.
What if I choose a provider that doesn’t fit my needs or aspirations?
Don’t worry, most providers have a good knowledge of other support programmes in the area and will advise you on this. They may also ask your permission to refer you to the most appropriate support programme. Don’t forget, all these programmes and support are voluntary.