Following on from Gateway to Work, the Voluntary Sector Options offers additional help to those clients aged 18-24 who were unable to secure employment during the Gateway to Work programme. VSO is a 13 week programme and the aim is to assist unemployed people back into employment.

The design of the programme is extremely flexible, allowing for a variety of training options with the emphasis on recognising the aspirations of the customer and developing a training plan that is most suitable for them.

Elements of the programme can include training in motivation, confidence, communication, interview techniques, help with compiling a CV, completing application forms and writing letters of application as well as the opportunity of work experience within the voluntary sector.

VSO is one of the mandatory programmes of New Deal if you are 6 months unemployed. To find out if you can join before then, contact your local Jobcentre Plus office.