Employment

If you are facing redundancy, short time working, or reduced earnings, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) produces a range of leaflets to help you. Your local Jobcentre Plus office will be able to help - look in the telephone directory for their number.

You can also get advice from your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) - www.nacab.org.uk (England & Wales) www.cas.org.uk (Scotland) www.citizensadvice.org.uk (Northern Ireland) or any of the agencies listed under Debt Advice / Counselling.

Redundancy

To ensure that you are treated fairly, employers must follow certain procedures. You can find out more about your rights at directgov.gov.uk.

Check if you have any payment protection insurance for any of your loans, (including your mortgage), as these policies may help you to make your monthly repayments.

Check whether you may be entitled to a refund of tax, or to claim tax credits – contact your local tax office or look at the Revenue & Customs website

Looking for work

Review your CV to ensure it gives the most recent information about your employment, your experience, and skills. You can get help at CV Advice.

Prepare for interviews – know the employer, their business, what the job requires, and how you fulfil the role. Dress appropriately, be on time, and take evidence to support your CV, eg, qualifications, certificates of training received. For telephone interviews, ensure that you are in a quiet place with no background noise and no risk of being interrupted.