Payment system downtime (15 March 2026)
All online and telephone payments will be unavailable from 10am to 1pm on Sunday 15 March 2026 due to scheduled maintenance. Parking payments are not affected by this downtime. Thank you for your patience.
Returning to work after being a carer
Last updated: 16 February 2026
Next review: 16 February 2027
If you want to start or return to work, there are lots of things to consider and many schemes that can help you as a carer.
You may need to return to work to earn money. For some carers who haven't worked for some time, this can be daunting. You may have lost your confidence, or feel you no longer have the skills you once had or the skills you need to re-start your career.
The kind of support that's available to help you ease back into the workplace includes:
- training, guidance and work placement programmes
- work experience, volunteering and job trials
- help with starting your own business
- help with child care or caring responsibilities
If you are a carer and want to return to work, you may be able to get help from Jobcentre Plus. The Work Preparation Support for Carers scheme offers advice and training.
You may also be able to get replacement care paid for while you are taking part in approved activities. For more information, contact your local Jobcentre Plus office or call the Jobcentre Plus phone service on 0845 6060 234 (Textphone: 0845 6055 255), Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm).