Please select either the GRAPHICAL VERSION of our website which uses menus and images or select the TEXT ONLY version which does not use any graphics at all.

i+ kiosks, iPlus kiosks i+ kiosk, iPlus kiosk. Information kiosks, eaccess. e-access, touch screen information kiosks in tyne and wear. Open Tyne and Wear, TWICT, kiosk, kiosks, i+ kiosks, iPlus kiosks i+ kiosk, iPlus kiosk. Information kiosks, eaccess. e-access, touch screen information kiosks in tyne and wear. Open Tyne and Wear, TWICT, kiosk, kiosks, i+ kiosks, iPlus kiosks i+ kiosk, iPlus kiosk. Information kiosks, eaccess. e-access, touch screen information kiosks in tyne and wear. Open Tyne and Wear, TWICT, kiosk, kiosks, i+ kiosks, iPlus kiosks i+ kiosk, iPlus kiosk. Information kiosks, eaccess. e-access, touch screen information kiosks in tyne and wear. Open Tyne and Wear, TWICT, kiosk, kiosks, i+ kiosks, iPlus kiosks i+ kiosk, iPlus kiosk. Information kiosks, eaccess. e-access, touch screen information kiosks in tyne and wear. Open Tyne and Wear, TWICT, kiosk, kiosks.

-- Help Finding a job: Where to look

General Advice, CV's, CV, Application forms, Writing a letter

Finding a job involves quite a lot of work, but knowing where to look can make it much easier. But, before you read on, did you know we have a database containing lots of jobs which you can search and apply for online? Have you seen our sample CV's? A good CV can help you get a job. Now you can also quickly create your own great looking CV using our online vacancy system? You could also find a job too!

It may take time to find the job you want but dont give up.

USEFUL WEBSITES: Connexions Direct are available every day between 8am and 2am. Call FREE 080 800 13 2 19 or visit the website at www.Connexions-Direct.com. www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/onelife/work/index.shtml Good advice on all aspects of job hunting and applying for jobs. www.jobseekersadvice.co.uk Comprehensive advice for job seekers of all ages, clearly written and well organised. www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk Job Centre Plus online job search. www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk Help and advice on job hunting and extra support www.worktrain.gov.uk National jobs and learning website. www.monster.co.uk 1000's of jobs and careers.

CONNEXIONS CENTRES: All Connexions Centres have a vacancy board with details of jobs and training opportunities for young people. Connexions staff can help you find the vacancy which would suit your skills and ambitions. They can also advise you on training and the best way to build the skills for the job you would like. Have a look at the Jobs Bulletin. Connexions staff produce the Jobs Bulletin each fortnight. It has a list of local job opportunities available and you should be able to find it in local schools, colleges, outreach centres and Job Centres.

JOB CENTRE PLUS: Job Centre Plus advertise vacancies for people over 18. Staff can also help you claim any benefits you might be entitled to while you are looking for work. For further advice about job hunting, try the Jobseeker Direct telephone helpline, 0845 6060234. You can also visit the Job Centre Plus websites: www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk Job Centre Plus online job search. www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk Help and advice on job hunting and extra support www.worktrain.gov.uk National jobs and learning website.

JOBS WHICH ARE ADVERTISED: Employers put adverts to find new staff in all sorts of places. Let us know if you find job adverts somewhere that we have missed by clicking here now . Connexions Centres Job boards in shopping centres Shop windows Internet Trade or professional magazines Local papers Many of the regions local papers have job adverts or a jobs section, the best jobs paper for the North East is the Evening Chronicle on a Thursday. You can find copies of these papers in your local library. * * REMEMBER: Keep your eyes peeled * * job adverts are everywhere.

LOCAL PAPERS: These papers have a job section. You can find copies of the papers in your local library or at Job Centre Plus. You can also visit their web sites. Evening Chronicle (Thursdays) / The Journal (Fridays) http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/1800icjobs/ Sunday Sun http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/1800icjobs/ Sunderland Echo on Wednesdays www.jobstoday.co.uk www.sunderlandtoday.co.uk Shields Gazette on Wednesdays www.ajobtoday.co.uk www.southtynesidetoday.co.uk Herald and Post series Newcastle: www.mediauk.com/newspapers/41563 Gateshead: www.mediauk.com/newspapers/13748 South Tyneside: www.mediauk.com/newspapers/343117 North Tyneside: www.mediauk.com/newspapers/343114 Star Series South Tyne: www.mediauk.com/newspapers/41878 Sunderland: www.mediauk.com/newspapers/41879 Houghton: www.mediauk.com/newspapers/41878 Washington: www.mediauk.com/newspapers/41878

JOBS WHICH ARE NOT ADVERTISED: About half of all job vacancies are not advertised anywhere. Companies advertise internally on notice boards or they take on people who have already contacted them. You need to do some hunting to find out whats on offer. You can contact employers who might be able to offer you the sort of work or training you are looking for. You could telephone if you know the best person to speak to. The best way to make sure that they keep you in mind next time they are looking for someone is to send a speculative letter. Ask friends and family to let you know about vacancies that are advertised where they work. Find out which companies do the sort of work that interests you by looking in the Yellow Pages, the local Thompson Directory or business directories like the North East of England Regional Business Directory, which you can find in your local library. You can also visit the North East Chamber of Commerce at: www.necctraining.co.uk.

EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES: Employment agencies can help you find temporary or permanent work. You could be employed by the agency rather than by the company you work with. Most Employment Agencies ask you to register with them if you want them to find you a job. You might have to call in to their office to register, but you might be able to register on-line. You could also be asked to do a simple skills test, to see what you can do on a computer for example. Employers pay a fee to the agency. If you register with an agency you should not be asked for any money. The only agencies who might ask you to pay a fee are the specialised agencies like entertainment or modeling agencies that find work for actors, performers or models. Employment agencies are best at finding jobs for people with some experience of work. Not all agencies work with under 18s. Staff at your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland) can advise you on which agencies are likely to have work for 16 and 18 year olds.

* REMEMBER * When you telephone or visit an employment agency to register, your telephone manner or appearance are likely to be assessed.

-- Help Finding a job: General Advice for Job Applicants

Where to look, CV's, CV, Application forms, Writing a letter

You can apply for jobs by telephone, by filling in an application form, by writing a letter, by sending a CV or by registering with an employment agency. Each job is different and so will be the way you apply for it. No matter what the job is, or what other things they ask for, most employers are looking for someone who is reliable, keen and willing to learn. What skills do you have? Do not be disheartened if your application is not successful, just keep trying and you'll get there in the end. IMPORTANT: Jobs get filled very quickly, do not wait too long to apply for the job you want, make sure you get your application in as soon as you can without rushing it.

USEFUL WEBSITES: http://www.connexions-direct.com, http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/onelife/work/index.shtml, Good advice on all aspects of job hunting and applying for jobs. http://www3.open.ac.uk/learners-guide/careers/applying_for_jobs/application_forms.htm, Focuses on tips for filling in application forms. http://www.channel4.com/life/microsites/B/brilliantcareers/ Help in preparing a CV including a game to help you identify your skills and CV Sorcerer to build an electronic CV. http://www.jobseekersadvice.co.uk/ Comprehensive advice for job seekers of all ages, clearly written and well organised. www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk http://www.worktrain.gov.uk/ National jobs and learning website with access to the Jobcentre Plus database. http://www.monster.co.uk Jobs and careers.

WHAT SKILLS DO YOU HAVE?: Do not underestimate the skills you already have. At school you can build up skills through lots of different activities which are just the skills employers are looking for. These are called transferable skills. You might also have developed your skills through your hobbies and interests, from any clubs or sports teams you belong to or from any responsibilities you have. During your work experience placement you will develop new skills which would interest an employer. If you have a part-time or voluntary job you will have added to the skills you have. Make a list of all the things you do. See if you can match the transferable skills from the list below to your list of things you can do. You might get some good ideas from your Progress File or from your Record of Achievement. Some examples of transferable skills:- Communication skills such as reading, writing, making presentations, using the telephone at work, working with the public. Team working skills such as shared tasks, group project work, working as a member of a working party or a team. Numeracy skills such as being good at maths at school, dealing with figures at work, adding up or taking away, mental arithmetic. IT/Computer skills using different software packages such as Word, Excel and Access, using email and the internet, designing web pages. Organisation skills and Time management skills such as organising different tasks so that every thing gets done on time and being punctual. Special skills such as being able to speak or write a second language, communicate in sign language, having a full, clean driving licence, a first aid certificate or good keyboard skills. When you have made your list of skills, think about your personal qualities. Are you keen or motivated? Reliable? Good at showing initiative? Confident? Outgoing? Do you enjoy learning new skills? Working independently? Working as a member of a team? *Remember*: Employers like to know how you gained your skills. Remember to find some evidence of your skills or personal qualities.

-- Help Finding a job: How to write a letter

Where to look, General Advice, CV's, CV, Application forms

Help with letters: Depending on the circumstances, there are three types of letter you might want to send to an employer:- 1 Letter of application. If a job advert says that you have to apply for a job in writing you need to write a letter of application. 2 Speculative letter. If you want to find out if an employer has any jobs or apply for jobs which are not advertised you need to write a speculative letter. 3 Covering letter. If you are sending a CV or an application form to an employer you need to write a covering letter.

Handy hints for writing letters to employers: You need to set your letter out like a business letter. If you have learnt to set out a business letter it is a good idea to use the style you already know. If you have not learnt a style you could look at examples of letters in your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland), in your local library or on the internet.

If you know the name of the person you are writing to you can begin your letter with Dear Mr [Surname] and would then finish your letter with Yours sincerely. If you do not know the name of the person who will read your letter, you need to begin your letter with Dear Sir/Madam then you finish your letter with Yours faithfully. The content of the letter will depend on the type of letter you are writing.

LETTER OF APPLICATION: Use the job advert to find out what skills and experience the employer is looking for. Begin by saying what job you would like to apply for, and why. You need to write a little about your skills and experience. If you have gained your skills through your hobbies and interests or through voluntary work you should include these things. You should also talk about the qualifications you have. If the advert asks for your references you need to put in their names and addresses. Finish your letter by saying you will be happy to give the employer any further information which they might require. Do make sure that your contact details are clearly set out at the top of the page.

SPECULATIVE LETTER: Begin your letter by explaining what sort of job you are looking for and why you would like to work for the company. You then need to write a little about your skills and experience. If you have gained your skills through your hobbies and interests or through voluntary work you should include these things. You should also talk about the qualifications you have. Tell the employer if you are enclosing a copy of your CV . Finish your letter by saying that you will be happy to give the employer any further information which they might require. Do make sure that your contact details are clearly set out at the top of the page.

COVERING LETTER: Begin your letter by saying what job you are applying for. Write a little about why you are applying for a job. You might want to talk about your skills and interests, but don’t repeat the things on your CV or in your application form. Finish your letter by saying that you enclose a copy of your CV or application form and that you will be happy to give the employer any further information which they might require.

Handy hints for writing letters to employers: Do look at examples of letters in your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland), in your local library or on the internet. Do write your letter in rough first. Do proof read your rough copy and ask someone else to read it too before you do it in neat. Do not use more than one side of plain A4 paper. Do type your letter or use black ink so that it is clear. Do sign your letter in your own handwriting if you type the letter. Do keep a copy of any letters you send to employers. Do not panic! Get help from Your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland).

-- Job seekers Allowance Information

What can I claim?, Other benefits, find a job, finding a job, employment, finding employment, get a job, getting a job

What is Jobseekers Allowance?, Who is eligible for Jobseekers Allowance?, How much is Jobseekers Allowance?, How to apply for Jobseekers Allowance, Where to get help and more information about Jobseekers Allowance?.

What is Jobseekers Allowance?: Jobseekers Allowance is available to people aged 18 and over who are not working but are available for work and actively seeking work. There are two types of Jobseekers Allowance: Contribution-based: this is based on the previous National Insurance contributions a person has paid. Income-based: this is for people who have not paid enough National Insurance contributions and is means-tested against any income or savings.

Who is eligible for Jobseekers Allowance?: Jobseekers Allowance is available for those over the age of 18 who are capable and available for work and actively seeking a job. A Jobseekers Agreement is agreed with an adviser at the local Job Centre, covering the type of job you are looking for and how you will try to get work. You will have regular follow up interviews to discuss your job search progress. Your benefit depends on you proving that you are actively looking for work and doing as you agreed in your Jobseekers Agreement. Full-time students are not usually able to claim Jobseekers Allowance. Part-time students may be able to claim if they are available for and actively seeking work. They must also be willing to change the hours they study or give up their course immediately to start a job. 16 and 17 year olds are not usually entitled to Jobseekers Allowance as the government has guaranteed a Youth Training Place to all. However, certain groups are able to claim. These include: People with a partner and children, People with disabilities, People who have just left care or prison , Young people forced to live away from home.

How much is Jobseekers Allowance?: Contribution-based Jobseekers allowance is at a fixed rate, depending on age. Income-based Jobseekers allowance is means-tested and takes into account any income, savings, part-time work or income of a partner. The rules are quite complex so contact your local Job centre for more information. Local numbers are listed below.

How to apply for Jobseekers Allowance: If you are aged 18 and above visit your local Job Centre for a claim pack and arrange an interview with an adviser. If you are aged 16-17, call at your nearest Connexions office to register for work and training. You will complete a form which you then take to your local Job Centre to claim Jobseekers allowance.

Below are some Job Centre Contact Numbers.
Newcastle: Newcastle City: 0191 220 8800, Newcastle East: 0191 220 4646, Newcastle West: 0191 220 4700, Newburn: 0191 220 4500.
Gateshead: Shildon House: 0191 451 4222, Bede House: 0191 220 4000, Birtley: 0191 451 3500, Blaydon: 0191 451 6900, Felling: 0191 451 6800.
North Tyneside: Wallsend: 0191 220 8700, Killingworth: 0191 220 4810, Whitley Bay: 0191 220 4949, North Shields: 0191 220 5400.
South Tyneside: Jarrow: 0191 451 3000, South Shields: 0191 451 4444.
Sunderland: Sunderland: 0191 554 4800, Washington: 0191 451 3255.

Here are some useful websites. Help and advice on job hunting and extra support. For more information visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk. This link takes you directly to the A to Z of benefits that are available. Visit www.dwp.gov.uk/lifeevent/benefits. Information about benefits and services you may be able to get and how to apply, including forms you can download. Visit this website at www.dss.gov.uk. The place to turn to for the latest and widest range of public service information is www.direct.gov.uk.

-- Safe Sex and Contraception - an important issue

Sexual Health, Aids and HIV, Relationships, Gay, Lesbian and Bi Sexual

This page discusses the important issue of safe sex and tries to answer some common questions about this subject. Emergency Contraception: Have you had unprotected sex in the last 72 hours? Worried you might be pregnant? If so call the Emergency Contraception helpline on 0800 49 48 47. Calls are FREE but some mobiles might charge. You will be told what to do next when you call.

What is Safe Sex?, Avoid Casual Sex, Age of Consent, Emergency Contraception.

What is Safe Sex?: Learning to practice safe sex leaves you free to enjoy sex without putting yourself at risk of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or unwanted pregnancy. There are lots of sexually transmitted diseases including AIDS, syphilis, herpes, hepatitis, gonorrhoea and genital warts, and many of these can be very serious. There are a variety of different options to consider when it comes to contraception and safe sex. Some forms of contraception, like the birth control pill, are effective against pregnancy but offer no protection at all from infection. Condoms are the only contraceptive that can prevent both pregnancy and the spread of STDs, and for this reason the only truly safe way to have sex is to use a condom. A few facts about condoms: Condoms have none of the medical side effects of the birth control pill, Condoms are only needed when you have sex, unlike many contraceptives, which may require you to take them all the time, Condoms are widely available in chemists, supermarkets, pubs and clubs, Condoms are available in various shapes, colours, flavours, textures and sizes and can heighten the fun of making love, Condoms can help protect women from cancer of the cervix, Condoms make sex less messy, Condoms are very easy to use and to dispose of.

Avoid Casual Sex: There are many reasons why it might be wise to avoid having casual sex with someone who is not a regular partner, but perhaps the main one is the fact that the more partners you have, the greater your risk of getting an infection. If you do have sex with someone who is not your regular partner you must use a condom. Make sure you train yourself well to always use one, especially after drinking alcohol. Alcohol can make you forget all about safe sex and this is when accidents happen. Different people may give different advice, so always contact your doctor or family planning clinic to discuss anything you are worried or unsure about.

The Law and Sex (age of consent): Many teenagers think that adults are always making a big deal about people having underage sex. Some young people think that if they feel ready to have sex and they use protection, it has nothing to do with anyone else. This is not the case, and it is important that you know THE FACTS and THE LAW . To find out more visit www.avert.org/teensex.htm.

What is the age of consent?: The age of consent is the age at which the law says you are old enough to make your own decision about whether to have sex or not. In the UK the law says that both partners must be sixteen or over. This applies whether you're heterosexual, gay or lesbian. Before you reach this age, you can't legally have sex with anyone, however old they are. But Our Parents Say it's OK! That doesn't make any difference! You can't get around the laws for smoking, drinking or driving because your parents say it's OK, and it's the same with this. The age of consent laws always apply, whether you're in love, if you've been together for ages or even if you've already had sex. What is 'Statutory Rape'? If someone who is over the age of consent has sex with someone who is under the age of sixteen they can be charged with the crime of 'statutory rape'. It is important that you understand that it does not matter if both people agreed to have sex. If one person was under the age of sixteen the law sees it as statutory rape.

And What is Sexual Abuse? This is when a person under the age of consent is pressured into any type of sexual contact that they do not want. If you know anyone who is being treated in this way, you should tell an adult or your Connexions Personal Adviser.

Where to Get Help and More Information: Below are some contact numbers and website links to organisations that can offer support, information and advice. Emergency Contraception Helpline: For confidential advice and to find out the opening times of your nearest Family Planning Clinic or Casualty for emergency contraception (up to 72 hours after sex) call FREE on 0800 494847. C-Card is a scheme to enable young people under 25 to get a card entitling them to FREE condoms from various outlets across Newcastle and North Tyneside. For your nearest outlet call C-Card FREE on 0800 28 29 30. likeitis tells you about contraception and emergency contraception; using condoms to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections; what really happens during sex; teenage pregnancy: what your options are; how to cope with puberty, peer pressure and bullying. Find out about your sexuality; information about periods. Visit www.likeitis.org.uk. Brook Advisory Centres - commonly known just as Brook, are the only national voluntary sector provider of free and confidential sexual health advice and services specifically for young people under 25. Phone 0800 0185 023 for details of nearest Brook clinic offering confidential advice for young people or visit www.Brook.org.uk. The Site is an excellent website which offers a wide range of help, advice and information. TheSite.org covers issues such as Sex and Relationships, Drugs and Alcohol, Health, Home, Law and Money, Travel and Free Time, Work and Study. Visit www.thesite.org. Mind Body and Soul gives health information for young people aged 14-16 in a fun and interesting way. Visit their website at www.mindbodysoul.gov.uk. Contraception Education Promotes sexual health awareness amongst young people, protects their sexual health and helps build confidence and assertiveness in sexual choices. Visit their website at www.contraceptioneducation.co.uk. Sexwise: A FREE helpline for young people aged between 12 and 18 on matters to do with sexual health and sexuality including contraception, abortion, relationships and pregnancy. Call 0800 28 29 30 from 7am until midnight, seven days a week from anywhere in the UK. You can also visit www.ruthinking.co.uk. Family Planning Association: Nationwide helplines are open Monday to Friday and provide confidential information and advice on contraception and sexual and reproductive health. You can also find your nearest family planning clinic or sexual health clinic and find out about other sexual health services anywhere in the UK. Whatever your individual situation, you can talk it through with their fully trained and experienced helpline staff in complete confidence. Call 0845 310 1334 from 9am till 6pm. You can also visit them at www.fpa.org.uk. NHS Direct operates a 24-hour nurse advice and health information service, providing confidential information on what to do if your feel ill, health conditions, local healthcare services, self help and support organisations including information about contraception which is FREE through the NHS. Visit their web site at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or LOCALL 0845 4647. Jonny Longlife provides information and advice about a healthier lifestyle. Whether you want advice on substance abuse, sex education, fitness facilities or bullying, this site can help or point you in the right direction. Visit the Jonny Longlife website at www.jonnylonglife.com. The British Pregnancy Advisory Service: Are you worried you might be pregnant? Are you pregnant and don't know what to do? Are you thinking about an abortion? For confidential help and advice call BPAS on 0845 730 40 30 or visit them at www.bpas.org. Streetwise are a great local source of help. Streetwise work in partnership with other agencies to offer information, advice, support and counselling services to young people aged 13 to 25. For help and advice call Streetwise on 0191 230 5400 or visit their website at www.streetwisenorth.co.uk. Sexual Health Information Line: For information on HIV and other sexually transmitted infections call FREE 24-hours per day on 0800 567 123. Walk in Centres: Some areas of England have walk-in centres. Most of these can supply emergency contraception pills. They have long opening hours and are open at the week-ends and bank holidays. To find out if there is a walk-in centre in your area call the fpa helpline 0845 310 1334 or NHS Direct on 0845 4647. Local Telephone Numbers: The contacts below can offer confidential advice about family planning including contraception and safe sex. Gateshead Young Womens Outreach Project 0191 477 7759, Gateshead Health Centre 0191 443 6825, Newcastle Graingerville Clinic 0191 219 5239, Sunderland Family Planning Services 0191 569 9966, North Tyneside Contraception and Sexual, Health Service 0191 219 6642, South Tyneside Family Planning Services 0191 451 6180. Newcastle Local family Planning Clinic Newcastle 0191 219 5239 North East AIDS Care: Tel 0191 281 5200. Visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/hivservices.nsf/a/neac HIV Care Newcastle: Tel: 0800 567123. Visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/hivservices.nsf/a/home Body Positive North East, AIDS and HIV support. Tel: 0191 232 2855. Visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/hivservices.nsf/a/bpne?opendocument Visit www.communigate.co.uk/ne/bodypositivenortheast GUM Clinic (Genito Urinary Medicine) Sexually transmitted infections and non sexually transmitted infections. Condoms, pregnancy testing, emergency contraception and Hepatitis B immunisation. Newcastle General Hospital Westgate Road, Telephone 0191 219 5011 o rvisit www.gumnewcastle.nhs.uk. Gateshead Contraception and Sexual Health Service 0191 490 2520 Local Family Planning Clinic Gateshead 0191 443 6825 Gateshead HIV and AIDS Prevention Service Gateshead 0191 490 1699 Body Positive North East, AIDS and HIV support. Tel: 0191 232 2855. Visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/hivservices.nsf/a/bpne?opendocument Visit www.communigate.co.uk/ne/bodypositivenortheast STAG Gateshead and South Tyneside 0191 490 1708. North Tyneside: Staff in the sexual health service work with GPs and other community health staff to provide free advice and support on a drop-in basis across North Tyneside. Anyone can attend and no appointment is necessary. There are a number of sessions held every week where staff are available to help with: Questions or worries about types of contraception, including the morning after pill Pregnancy testing Free condoms Help with the coil or contraceptive implants Advice about sexually transmitted diseases and how to prevent them Cervical smears Screening for infections, including gonorrhoea, chlamydia and HIV Treatment for thrush Drop-in sessions are available across North Tyneside - CLICK HERE to view list. North Tyneside Primary Care Trust operates free and confidential contraception and Genito-Urinary Medicine (GUM) clinics, contact them on 0191 219 6610. They also provide an advice line. to speak to the Health Adviser contact 0191 259 2519. The North Tyneside Contraception and Sexual Health Service CASH can provide advice and support to young women in the North Tyenside area. 0191 219 6642. South Tyneside: Stanhope Parade Health Centre, Gordon St. South Shields Telephone 0191 451 6103 Palmer Community Hospital, Wear St. Jarrow 0191 451 6457 Hebburn Health Centre, Campbell Park Rd. Hebburn 0191 451 6242 GUM Clinic (Genito Urinary Medicine) Sexually transmitted infections and non sexually transmitted infections. Condoms, pregnancy testing, emergency contraception and Hepatitis B immunisation. Stanhope Parade health Centre, Gordon Street, South Shields. 0191 451 6180. Ocean Rd Community Centre, Ocean Road, South Shields Telephone 0191 423 0789. Contraception Advice Line 0191 451 6180 Emergency Contraception – If you are at risk of pregnancy after having unprotected sex or a problem with contraception then emergency Contraception is available for up to 72 hours. Please seek help as soon as possible from our contraception clinics or a GP. Help may also be available after this time – seek help quickly after the event. Cervical Smear Tests: If you need a cervical smear test but do not need contraception, your test can be taken in community clinics across South Tyneside staffed by female doctors and nurses. They also offer help and advice on breast awareness and other womens health issues. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: For professional and confidential advice and teatment please contact: Department of Genito-Urinary Medicine (G.U.M) – Clinic D, Stanhope Parade Health Centre, Gordon Street, South Shields. Telephone 0191 451 6104. Sunderland Emergency Contraception / Family Planning: 0191 565 6256 Sunderland Royal Hospital: 0191 565 6256 Sunderland HIV and AIDS Unit: 0191 569 9197 Sunderland Pregnancy Care Service LIFE: 0191 565 2816 GUM Clinic (Genito Urinary Medicine) Sexually transmitted infections and non sexually transmitted infections. Condoms, pregnancy testing, emergency contraception and Hepatitis B immunisation. Sunderland General Hospital. Telephone 0191 451 6180. Body Positive Sunderland 0191 510 1805 www.communigate/co.uk/ne/bodypositivenortheast.

--- The Emergency Contraceptive Pill

Sexual Health, Safe Sex, Aids and HIV, Relationships

This page explains what you can do if you have had unprotected sex in the last 72 hours (3 days) and are worried that you might become pregnant. The Emergency Contraceptive Pill is also commonly referred to as the "morning after pill". It can stop you from becoming pregnant if you think other forms of contraception have failed or if you did not use any form of protection whilst having sex.

When can I use it?: You can use the Emergency Contraceptive Pill up to 72 hours after having sex, but the earlier the better. There is no charge for the pill and its better to be safe than sorry. How do I get it? Call the Emergency Contraception helpline on 0800 49 48 47. Calls are FREE but some mobiles might charge. You will be told what to do next when you call. How do I use it? You will be given advice from the healthcare worker when you collect your medication. You will take 2 pills immediately as a single dose. Some women might feel some nausea, but this is not very common. If, however you are actually sick within 2 hours of taking the pills it will not work and you will need to take it again. How does it work? If taken early enough it prevents fertilisation of the egg. How do I know it has worked? Your next period will come earlier or on time. If it comes earlier it may last longer. Any delay in your next period means you could be pregnant and you should do a pregnancy test and see your doctor. How effective is it? There is a small failure rate. Less than 2-4% of women using this method will still become pregnant. However compare this with the risk of becoming pregnant if you don't take the emergency pill which is 20-30% for a single exposure in the middle of your cycle (days 10-14) and between 0-10% at other times in your cycle. What next? It is very important to use a reliable method of contraception if you do not want to get pregnant. As its name suggests, the "emergency" contraception pill is for emergencies only and the healthcare worker will help you choose a safe method to use in the future. Using condoms in addition to any other contraceptive method you may be using will help protect you against sexually transmitted diseases.

Useful contacts: Brook Advisory Centres - commonly known just as Brook, are the only national voluntary sector provider of free and confidential sexual health advice and services specifically for young people under 25. Phone 0800 0185 023 for details of nearest Brook clinic offering confidential advice for young people or visit www.Brook.org.uk. likeitis tells you about contraception and emergency contraception; using condoms to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections; what really happens during sex; teenage pregnancy: what your options are; how to cope with puberty, peer pressure and bullying. Find out about your sexuality; information about periods. Our help and advice section also gives links to other information. Visit www.likeitis.org.uk. Contraception Education Promotes sexual health awareness amongst young people, protects their sexual health and helps build confidence and assertiveness in sexual choices. Visit their website at www.contraceptioneducation.co.uk. Sexwise: A FREE helpline for young people aged between 12 and 18 on matters to do with sexual health and sexuality including contraception, abortion, relationships and pregnancy. Call 0800 28 29 30 from 7am to midnight, seven days a week from anywhere in the UK. You can also visit www.ruthinking.co.uk. Family Planning Association : Fpa’s nationwide helplines are open Monday to Friday and provide confidential information and advice on contraception and sexual and reproductive health. You can also find your nearest family planning clinic or sexual health clinic and find out about other sexual health services anywhere in the UK. Whatever your individual situation, you can talk it through with their fully trained and experienced helpline staff in complete confidence. Call 0845 310 1334 from 9am till 6pm. You can also visit them at www.fpa.org.uk. The British Pregnancy Advisory Service: Are you worried you might be pregnant? Are you pregnant and don't know what to do? Are you thinking about an abortion? For confidential help and advice call BPAS on 0845 730 40 30 or visit them at www.bpas.org. NHS Direct operates a 24-hour nurse advice and health information service, providing confidential information on what to do if your feel ill, health conditions, local healthcare services, self help and support organisations including information about contraception which is FREE through the NHS. Visit their web site at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or LOCALL 0845 4647.

OTHER USEFUL CONTACT DETAILS .
Sexual Health Information Line: For information on HIV and other sexually transmitted infections call FREE 24-hours per day on 0800 567 123. Walk in Centres: Some areas of England have walk-in centres. Most of these can supply emergency contraception pills. They have long opening hours and are open at the week-ends and bank holidays. To find out if there is a walk-in centre in your area call the fpa helpline 0845 310 1334 or NHS Direct on 0845 4647. The contacts below can offer confidential advice about family planning including contraception and safe sex. Gateshead Young Womens Outreach Project 0191 490 2520, Gateshead Health Centre 0191 443 6825, Newcastle Graingerville Clinic 0191 219 5239, Sunderland Family Planning Services 0191 569 9966, North Tyneside Contraception and Sexual Health Service 0191 219 6642, South Tyneside Family Planning Services 0191 451 6180.

-- Sexual Health - an important issue

Safe Sex, Aids and HIV, Relationships, Gay, Lesbian and Bi-sexual

This page discusses the important issue of sexual health and provides useful contact information. What is sexual health?:
Sexual health means enjoying the sexual activity you want without causing yourself or anyone else any suffering, physical or mental harm. Contraception and avoiding infections are not the only issues related to sexual health. Sex is a normal and healthy part of life, but maybe you feel confused or worried about the issues? Some people choose to have sex outside a relationship, others wait until they are in a steady relationship, but remember the legal age a girl and boy can have sex is 16 and over. Contraception: Making choices about contraception and sexual health is important not just for your physical health, but also for your general well-being. Whatever you decide, you may need to talk to someone about contraception and protection. There are lots of places that can help and you might also be able to get free condoms. Be safe: If you have unprotected sex with someone who is not a long term partner you could get a sexually transmitted diseases. These include AIDS, syphilis, herpes, hepatitis, gonorrhoea or genital warts. There is no known cure for many of these diseases so always take precautions.

Where to Get Help and More Information: Below are some contact numbers and website links to organisations that can offer support, information and advice. Emergency Contraception Helpline: For confidential advice and to find out the opening times of your nearest Family Planning Clinic or Casualty for emergency contraception (up to 72 hours after sex) call FREE on 0800 494847. C-Card is a scheme to enable young people under 25 to get a card entitling them to FREE condoms from various outlets across Newcastle and North Tyneside. For your nearest outlet call C-Card FREE on 0800 28 29 30. likeitis tells you about contraception and emergency contraception; using condoms to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections; what really happens during sex; teenage pregnancy: what your options are; how to cope with puberty, peer pressure and bullying. Find out about your sexuality; information about periods. Visit www.likeitis.org.uk. Brook Advisory Centres - commonly known just as Brook, are the only national voluntary sector provider of free and confidential sexual health advice and services specifically for young people under 25. Phone 0800 0185 023 for details of nearest Brook clinic offering confidential advice for young people or visit www.Brook.org.uk. The Site is an excellent website which offers a wide range of help, advice and information. TheSite.org covers issues such as Sex and Relationships, Drugs and Alcohol, Health, Home, Law and Money, Travel and Free Time, Work and Study. Visit www.thesite.org. Mind Body and Soul gives health information for young people aged 14-16 in a fun and interesting way. Visit their website at www.mindbodysoul.gov.uk. Contraception Education Promotes sexual health awareness amongst young people, protects their sexual health and helps build confidence and assertiveness in sexual choices. Visit their website at www.contraceptioneducation.co.uk. Sexwise: A FREE helpline for young people aged between 12 and 18 on matters to do with sexual health and sexuality including contraception, abortion, relationships and pregnancy. Call 0800 28 29 30 from 7am until midnight, seven days a week from anywhere in the UK. You can also visit www.ruthinking.co.uk. Family Planning Association: Nationwide helplines are open Monday to Friday and provide confidential information and advice on contraception and sexual and reproductive health. You can also find your nearest family planning clinic or sexual health clinic and find out about other sexual health services anywhere in the UK. Whatever your individual situation, you can talk it through with their fully trained and experienced helpline staff in complete confidence. Call 0845 310 1334 from 9am till 6pm. You can also visit them at www.fpa.org.uk. NHS Direct operates a 24-hour nurse advice and health information service, providing confidential information on what to do if your feel ill, health conditions, local healthcare services, self help and support organisations including information about contraception which is FREE through the NHS. Visit their web site at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or LOCALL 0845 4647. Jonny Longlife provides information and advice about a healthier lifestyle. Whether you want advice on substance abuse, sex education, fitness facilities or bullying, this site can help or point you in the right direction. Visit the Jonny Longlife website at www.jonnylonglife.com. The British Pregnancy Advisory Service: Are you worried you might be pregnant? Are you pregnant and don't know what to do? Are you thinking about an abortion? For confidential help and advice call BPAS on 0845 730 40 30 or visit them at www.bpas.org. Streetwise are a great local source of help. Streetwise work in partnership with other agencies to offer information, advice, support and counselling services to young people aged 13 to 25. For help and advice call Streetwise on 0191 230 5400 or visit their website at www.streetwisenorth.co.uk. Sexual Health Information Line: For information on HIV and other sexually transmitted infections call FREE 24-hours per day on 0800 567 123. Walk in Centres: Some areas of England have walk-in centres. Most of these can supply emergency contraception pills. They have long opening hours and are open at the week-ends and bank holidays. To find out if there is a walk-in centre in your area call the fpa helpline 0845 310 1334 or NHS Direct on 0845 4647. Local Telephone Numbers: The contacts below can offer confidential advice about family planning including contraception and safe sex. Gateshead Young Womens Outreach Project 0191 477 7759, Gateshead Health Centre 0191 443 6825, Newcastle Graingerville Clinic 0191 219 5239, Sunderland Family Planning Services 0191 569 9966, North Tyneside Contraception and Sexual, Health Service 0191 219 6642, South Tyneside Family Planning Services 0191 451 6180. Newcastle Local family Planning Clinic Newcastle 0191 219 5239 North East AIDS Care: Tel 0191 281 5200. Visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/hivservices.nsf/a/neac HIV Care Newcastle: Tel: 0800 567123. Visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/hivservices.nsf/a/home Body Positive North East, AIDS and HIV support. Tel: 0191 232 2855. Visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/hivservices.nsf/a/bpne?opendocument Visit www.communigate.co.uk/ne/bodypositivenortheast GUM Clinic (Genito Urinary Medicine) Sexually transmitted infections and non sexually transmitted infections. Condoms, pregnancy testing, emergency contraception and Hepatitis B immunisation. Newcastle General Hospital Westgate Road, Telephone 0191 219 5011 o rvisit www.gumnewcastle.nhs.uk. Gateshead Contraception and Sexual Health Service 0191 490 2520 Local Family Planning Clinic Gateshead 0191 443 6825 Gateshead HIV and AIDS Prevention Service Gateshead 0191 490 1699 Body Positive North East, AIDS and HIV support. Tel: 0191 232 2855. Visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/hivservices.nsf/a/bpne?opendocument Visit www.communigate.co.uk/ne/bodypositivenortheast STAG Gateshead and South Tyneside 0191 490 1708. North Tyneside: Staff in the sexual health service work with GPs and other community health staff to provide free advice and support on a drop-in basis across North Tyneside. Anyone can attend and no appointment is necessary. There are a number of sessions held every week where staff are available to help with: Questions or worries about types of contraception, including the morning after pill Pregnancy testing Free condoms Help with the coil or contraceptive implants Advice about sexually transmitted diseases and how to prevent them Cervical smears Screening for infections, including gonorrhoea, chlamydia and HIV Treatment for thrush Drop-in sessions are available across North Tyneside - CLICK HERE to view list. North Tyneside Primary Care Trust operates free and confidential contraception and Genito-Urinary Medicine (GUM) clinics, contact them on 0191 219 6610. They also provide an advice line. to speak to the Health Adviser contact 0191 259 2519. The North Tyneside Contraception and Sexual Health Service CASH can provide advice and support to young women in the North Tyenside area. 0191 219 6642. South Tyneside: Stanhope Parade Health Centre, Gordon St. South Shields Telephone 0191 451 6103 Palmer Community Hospital, Wear St. Jarrow 0191 451 6457 Hebburn Health Centre, Campbell Park Rd. Hebburn 0191 451 6242 GUM Clinic (Genito Urinary Medicine) Sexually transmitted infections and non sexually transmitted infections. Condoms, pregnancy testing, emergency contraception and Hepatitis B immunisation. Stanhope Parade health Centre, Gordon Street, South Shields. 0191 451 6180. Ocean Rd Community Centre, Ocean Road, South Shields Telephone 0191 423 0789. Contraception Advice Line 0191 451 6180 Emergency Contraception – If you are at risk of pregnancy after having unprotected sex or a problem with contraception then emergency Contraception is available for up to 72 hours. Please seek help as soon as possible from our contraception clinics or a GP. Help may also be available after this time – seek help quickly after the event. Cervical Smear Tests: If you need a cervical smear test but do not need contraception, your test can be taken in community clinics across South Tyneside staffed by female doctors and nurses. They also offer help and advice on breast awareness and other womens health issues. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: For professional and confidential advice and teatment please contact: Department of Genito-Urinary Medicine (G.U.M) – Clinic D, Stanhope Parade Health Centre, Gordon Street, South Shields. Telephone 0191 451 6104. Sunderland Emergency Contraception / Family Planning: 0191 565 6256 Sunderland Royal Hospital: 0191 565 6256 Sunderland HIV and AIDS Unit: 0191 569 9197 Sunderland Pregnancy Care Service LIFE: 0191 565 2816 GUM Clinic (Genito Urinary Medicine) Sexually transmitted infections and non sexually transmitted infections. Condoms, pregnancy testing, emergency contraception and Hepatitis B immunisation. Sunderland General Hospital. Telephone 0191 451 6180. Body Positive Sunderland 0191 510 1805 www.communigate/co.uk/ne/bodypositivenortheast.

-- Apprenticeships

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NVQ's, Training, Information for employers: Training Apprenticeships

REAL WORK REAL PAY!: Think about it. Being paid to learn about the job you want to do, while you are doing it. That’s what apprenticeships are all about! Apprenticeships are Work Based Learning and are available to 16-24 year olds. Whilst on an Apprenticeship you can undertake qualifications to help you do your job. These include NVQ qualifications, Key Skills and possibly a Technical Certificate related to the work. NVQs have been designed by employers to measure successful performance in a particular job. If you are aged 16 - 24 an Apprenticeship might be ideal! To find out more about apprenticeships get in touch with your Personal Adviser. You can also visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk. The North East Chamber of Commerce website also offers information about Apprenticeships. www.necctraining.co.uk.

-- Information for Employers: Work Based Apprenticeships / Work Based Learning: Apprenticeships.

Working time regulations, Time off to study, Time off to train, Minimum Wage, NVQ's, Training

Apprenticeships are Work Based Learning and are available to 16-24 year olds. Whilst on an Apprenticeship a young person can undertake qualifications to help them do their job. These include NVQ qualifications, Key Skills and possibly a Technical Certificate related to the work. NVQ's have been designed by employers to measure successful performance in a particular job. There are different levels of apprenticeship: Apprenticeship ( NVQ level 2) Advanced Apprenticeship ( NVQ level 3), A local Training provider will help deliver a structured training programme and support both the trainee and employer throughout. Training may consist of day release or block release to a local College or Training Provider or a combination of these. In general the cost of training is met by the Learning and Skills Council, although in some instances employers may be asked to make a contribution. Employers would normally be responsible for paying the wage to the young employee. Free Vacancy Service for Employers: Connexions in Tyne and Wear - Connexions Hub Services in Tyne and Wear Vacancy service can help you to recruit a young person for your vacancy and help you to organise the training / NVQ elements of the job by introducing employers to local Training Providers. We will be happy to arrange for a member of staff to visit you to discuss this in more detail. You can also complete our on-line vacancy notification form and a Workforce Development Assistant will then contact you to discuss your requirements in more detail. You can also find out more information about how Apprenticeships are organised and how they can benefit your business by visiting the following websites: 1) For a successful business, developing the employees you need for the future is key - Apprenticeships mean you can do just that. Whether you decide to develop existing staff or recruit new employees as Apprentices your business will benefit.

Visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk. 2 The Department for education and skills website can give you more information about NVQs, why they exist and how they can help you. It also provides links to relevant websites, allowing you to gather more information according to your particular needs. Visit http://www.dfes.gov.uk/nvq/. Our website has a great document called Training Update which can be downloaded FREE. This document lists hundreds of opportunities in Work Based Learning and Apprenticeships covering many areas including Admin and Finance, Information Technology, Health and Beauty, Engineering and Electrical, Motor Vehicle, Construction and many more. It will only take a few minutes to download and is well worth it!

-- Help Finding a job: Help with your CV

Where to look, General Advice, Application forms, Writing a letter

We have some sample CV's that you can use as templates to create your own. A good CV can improve your chances of getting a job. You can also create a great looking CV using our online vacancy system and you could even find a job too!

More about Cv's: The word "CV" is short for Curriculum Vitae. A CV is a list of information about you to help an employer decide whether you could be right for a job. You might need to send a CV with a covering letter to apply for a job. You might send a CV with a speculative letter to see if a company has any suitable jobs. Employers often keep CVs which are sent to them until they have a vacancy. When you build a CV, you need to put information about what you have done and what you can do into sections with headings. You can set the sections out in different ways but you always begin with your personal details. You might want to set the information out in a chronological CV. You need to arrange your headings like this: Your Personal Details, Education, Employment, Skills, Hobbies and Interests, References. You might prefer to stress your skills with a functional CV. You need to arrange your headings like this: Your Personal Details, Skills, Hobbies and Interests, Education, Employment, References.

YOUR PERSONAL DETAILS: You need to give your name, date of birth, address and contact details such as your email address, your telephone number and your mobile number. Employers may contact you using this information so do make sure you check these regularly. You also need to write a short personal profile, a few lines giving a very short summary of your skills and experience. Employers can look quickly at this section to find out a little bit about you. EDUCATION: In this section you need to list the secondary schools you have attended and the qualifications you have in date order. You should start with your most recent school. If you are still at school you should start with the qualification you are doing at the moment. You need to include information about when you will sit your exams and any predicted grades. You need to make sure that you give the names of the schools, the date you started and the date you left and details of any qualifications you have already achieved. EMPLOYMENT: In this section you need to list any jobs you have had. You should start with the job you are doing at the moment or your most recent job. You need to give details of your employer, the date you started and the date you left, and the title of your job. You need to give a short list of your duties or responsibilities. Don’t forget to mention any part-time or voluntary work you do. SKILLS: You need to list the skills you have with information about how you have shown your skills if possible. You can use your Progress File or your Record of Achievement to help you with this section. Remember to put in any special skills you have, such as speaking another language, good keyboard skills, having a first aid certificate or a full, clean driving licence. HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: This section gives the employer a little information about what kind of a person you are. List some of the things you enjoy doing. You should mention any clubs you belong to, any sports or social activities you are involved in or any voluntary work you do. REFERENCES: Your references are people who know you and can tell an employer whether they think you could do a job well. It is a good idea to give two references, one from school or college or from someone you have worked with as an employee, on a work experience placement or as a volunteer. You cannot give family members as a reference but you can give the names of family friends or other adults you know. You need to give the name and contact details of your references. You could also put details of their relationship to you. You need to ask permission of anyone you give as a reference before you put their names on your form.

HANDY HINTS FOR BUILDING A CV: Do not use more than two sides of A4 paper - Do type your CV if you can - Do not use fancy graphics or coloured effects, black is clearest - Do look at lots of examples of CVs. You can find some great examples on this website or ask in your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland) or in your local library - Do be positive and focus on the things you can do, not the things you can not do - Do proof read your CV when you have finished and ask someone else to help too, the more the merrier! - Do keep lots of spare copies of your CV - Do keep your CV up to date.

-- Help Finding a job: Help with Application Forms

Where to look, General Advice, CV's, CV, Writing a letter

Handy hints for filling in paper application forms, Handy hints for filling in electronic application forms. This includes our online vacancy system where you can also create your OWN CV.

When applying for a job, you are likely to be asked to fill in an application form or send a CV with a covering letter. You need to send your application as soon as possible, before the vacancy gets filled. It is not neccessary to send a CV when you send an application form, but it is a good idea to send a short covering letter to go with your application form. Some job agencies ask you to fill in an application form when you register. You might also be able to apply for a job on-line, using an electronic application form. Application forms can be laid out in different ways but they usually have sections that ask for: Details of the job you are applying for, Your personal details, Education and experience, Information about why you are applying for the job, Further information, References.

You might also be asked for information about your health, your medical history or your criminal record. Employers will use the information you give on the form to decide whether to ask you to come for an interview. You need to be positive about the things you can do, but don’t make anything up. It is worth taking time to get it right. Use the information below or come and talk to staff in Your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland) and ask for factsheets to help you complete your form.

*REMEMBER* Employers sometimes comment on the standard of electronic applications such as those made over the internet. We have some handy hints for filling in an electronic application form further down.

Details of the job you are applying for: The title of the job will be included in the advert. The job may also have a reference number, especially if you are applying for a job with a large organisation or through an agency as they could be advertising more than one vacancy so make sure you enter these details correctly. Your personal details: You need to give your name and address and contact details. The employer could use this information to ask you to come for an interview so make sure that you include contact details such as an email address or a mobile phone number which you use or check regularly. Education and Experience: Most employers want you to list details of your education and any work you have done in date order, starting with the most recent. If they want you to fill in this information in any other order they will make that clear in the instructions. You should include any work experience placements or voluntary work you have done. Make sure you also include any courses or work that you are doing at the moment. Don’t forget part-time jobs, Saturday jobs and voluntary work. Information about why you are applying for the job: No matter what the heading for this section, it is the part of the application form where you need to show the employer what makes you the best person for the job. The employer sets out the skills they are looking for in a job description or person specification. You need to show how the skills you have match the employer’s needs, with examples. You might be able to use examples or information from your Progress File, Record of Achievement, work experience or from social activities to show what you can do. You could use this section of the application form to let the employer know about your personal qualities. You might want to show how reliable you are and that you are keen and willing to learn new skills. Further Information: This section is for anything you can do which does not fit in anywhere else on the form. Here you can tell the employer if you have other skills, if you speak a second language, have a first aid certificate, a full, clean driving licence or have good keyboard skills for example. References: Your references are people who know you and can tell an employer whether they think you could do the job well. Employers often ask for a reference from school or college or from someone you have worked with as an employee, on a work experience placement or as a volunteer. You cannot give family members as references but you can give the names of family friends or other adults you know. You need to give the name and contact details of your references. You could also be asked to put details of their relationship to you. You need to ask permission of anyone you give as a reference before you put their names on your form.

Handy hints for filling in PAPER application forms: Do make a photocopy of the form so you can do it in rough first. It is also a good idea to keep the rough copy in case you are asked to go for an interview with the employer. Do make sure you read any instructions and information about each section very carefully before you start filling in the form. Do use any information about the job or the person specification in deciding what to put on your form. Do answer questions as fully as you can, put as much information as you possibly can in each section. Do not forget to include information about your hobbies, interests or voluntary activities. Do not leave any sections of the form blank, write N/A or Not Applicable if the question is not relevant to you. Do check for spelling mistakes and make sure you have used CAPITAL LETTERS in the right places. Do not use abbreviations. Do proof read your application when you have finished the rough copy, before you write it out in neat, and ask someone else to help too, the more the merrier! Do not use pencil or coloured pens to fill in the form. Black is clearest, especially if the employer needs to copy your form. Do use correcting fluid, or a single crossing out if you make a mistake, scribbling over mistakes looks messy. Do not panic! Get help from Your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland).

Handy hints for filling in ELECTRONIC application forms: Do not hurry - take your time. Do remember, you are showing how good your IT skills are when you send an e-application. Do make sure you read any instructions and information about each section very carefully before you start filling in the form. Do use any information about the job or the person specification in deciding what to put on your form. Do check your email address gives a good impression. If you have something like sexysue@hotmail.com or basher99@aol.com you should change it to something more sensible. Do answer questions as fully as you can, put as much information as you possibly can in each section. Do not forget to include information about your hobbies, interests or voluntary activities. Do not leave any sections of the form blank, write N/A or Not Applicable if the question is not relevant to you. Do proof read your application when you have finished the form. Do check for spelling mistakes and make sure you have used CAPITAL LETTERS in the right places. Do not use abbreviations. If you are a member of the Air Training Corps don't write ATC write it out in full so the other person knows what you mean. Do print off a copy of your completed form. This is useful to copy if you are going to do more than one e-application. It is also a good idea to keep a copy in case you are asked to go for an interview with the employer. Do remember to update any details that you save e.g. when you receive your exam results, when you gain work experience or any thing else that might look good on your application form. Don’t panic! Get help from Your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland).

-- Child Benefit Information

What can I claim, Child Trust Fund, Pregnancy and Parenting

From April 2006 families of 16 to 19 year olds who are in unpaid work-based training will be entitled to child benefit and child tax credit.

What is Child Benefit? Child Benefit is a tax-free social security benefit for people who are bringing up children. It is paid for each child and is not affected by income or savings. Before the date you can officially leave school, your parent or carer should automatically receive a letter asking about your future plans. If they do not receive this letter, they should contact the Child Benefit Centre to make an enquiry about their entitlement to Child Benefit.

Who can claim Child Benefit? Child Benefit is payable to a person responsible for a child:- Under 16 years old, Under 19 and studying full-time up to A-Level, Advanced Vocational Certificate of Education (AVCE) or equivalent, Aged 16 or 17 years old who has left school but is not in work or training but who is registered for work or training at a Connexions Centre. What are the payments? (from April 2003) £16.05 per week for the eldest or only child £10.75 for each of the other children.

Staying on or going into Further Education: If you intend to stay on at school or college beyond Year 11, your parent or carer must inform the Child Benefit Office of your plans. When you leave school or college Child Benefit usually stops a few weeks later. The date on which it must stop is known as the -end date- and will depend on when the course or term ends.
For children in England and Wales who leave school at age 16 the -end date- is the first Monday in September. For 17 and 18 year olds in England and Wales (and all school leavers in Scotland) the following -end dates- apply: If education ends during or at the end of the Autumn term the -end date- is the first Monday in January. If education ends during or at the end of the Spring term the -end date- is the Monday after Easter. If education ends during or at the end of the Summer term the -end date- is the first Monday in September.

When Child Benefit should stop: If you leave school or college on a date earlier than that notified to the Child Benefit Centre. If you reduce the time you study at school/college to 12 hours a week or less. If you start paid work of 24 hours or more per week. If you start work based training for young people. If you start to get Income Support, Severe Disablement Allowance or Incapacity Benefit. If you start to get Jobseekers Allowance. When you reach 19 years of age. If you start a course of Higher Education, e.g. leading to a degree, GNVQ level 4 and above, DHE, BTEC HNC and BTEC HND, SCOTVEC HNC / HND, teacher training or anything else higher than A Level.

Child Benefit EXTENSION PERIOD: On some occasions Child Benefit can be extended, but only if your parent or carer contacts the Child Benefit Centre and asks them to send a Child Benefit extension claim form. Child Benefit can be extended after the official -end date- if: The young person is aged 16 or 17 AND Has registered at a Connexions Centre and is actively seeking work or training AND Has not yet started work or training for which a training allowance is paid. Child Benefit can be extended up to and including: The last Monday in December for a young person who left full-time education between Easter and Summer, OR 12 weeks after the first Monday in January for a young person who left full time education between the first Tuesday in September and Christmas OR 12 weeks after the Easter -end date- for a young person who left full-time education between Christmas and Easter. If you start paid work or training during the extension period, Child Benefit will stop from the Monday following the date you start. If you reach 18 during the extension period, Child Benefit will stop. It will stop on either the Monday of your 18th birthday or the Monday following it.

If Child Benefit has stopped, can it start again?: If paid work ends or changes to less than 24 hours a week, or training ends before the Child Benefit end date, OR If paid work or training ends before the Child Benefit extension date and the young person registers for work or training again at a Connexions Centre. If the young person returns to full time Further Education. It does not matter how many jobs or training places you start or leave. If you are still within the extension period, you must register at your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland) and make a claim for Extended Child Benefit.

How to claim Child Benefit: Your parent or guardian will need to fill in a claim form which can be obtained from the Child Benefit Office. You can also apply for Child Benefit online or notify them of a change of details or circumstances. The service is FREE and secure. Visit https://esd.dwp.gov.uk/dwp/index.jsp.

Child care: Have your child care costs paid while you train! Care to Learn: If you are a young parent aged under 20 and you start learning - you could get help with your childcare costs up to £155 per week. You can be attending a full or part time course at a college or training centre. To find out more information make an appointment to see a Personal Adviser at your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland) . You can also ring 0845 600 2809 Monday to Friday 8.30 am – 5.00 pm or visit the Care to Learn website at www.dfes.gov.uk/caretolearn.

How to contact the Child Benefit office. If you have any questions about Child Benefit you can phone, write or e-mail the Child Benefit Office. You can also visit their website. By phone: Call 0845 302 1444. You can ring Monday to Friday 8am - 7pm (not on public holidays). By Textphone: If you have a problem with speech or hearing and use a Textphone: The number to call is 0845 302 1474. If you don't have your own Textphone system they are available in some libraries or Citizens Advice Bureau offices. You can also write to: Child Benefit Office (GB), PO Box 1, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE88 1AA. You can also email Child.Benefit@ir.gsi.gov.uk. They can reply to your e-mail in a different format if you ask them to, eg. Braille, audiocassette, large print or computer disc. You can also visit their website at http://www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/childbenefit/eligible.htm.

Where to get help and more information: Here are some website links to organisations that can offer support, information and advice. The Inland Revenue have an excellent website that gives lots of information about Child Benefit. Visit the website at www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/childbenefit/eligible.htm. You can also apply for Child Benefit online or notify them of a change of details or circumstances. The service is FREE and secure. Visit https://esd.dwp.gov.uk/dwp/index.jsp. This link takes you directly to the A to Z of benefits that are available. Visit www.dwp.gov.uk/lifeevent/benefits. Information about benefits and services you may be able to get and how to apply, including forms you can download. Visit this website at www.dss.gov.uk. The place to turn to for the latest and widest range of public service information is www.direct.gov.uk.

-- The National Minimum Wage

Working time regulations, Time off for Study or Training, Apprenticeships, NVQ's, Training

With effect from 1st October 2005 the following National Minimum Wage pay rates will apply: Aged 16 and 17: Young workers aged 16 or 17, who have ceased to be of compulsory school age must be paid at least £3.00 per hour. Aged 18-21 inclusive: Workers aged between 18 and 21 inclusive must be paid at least £4.25 per hour (up from £4.10). Aged 22 and over: Workers over the age of 22 must be paid at least £5.05 per hour (up from £4.85). Workers aged 22 years and over may still be paid a lower amount if they start a new job with accredited training.

Important information about exemptions: Young people on Apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship programmes may be exempt from the minimum wage. Apprentices are only entitled to receive the minimum wage if they have completed the first year of their Apprenticeship and have reached the age of 19. Apprentices aged 16 and 17 and participants on pre-apprenticeship programmes will be exempt from the new rate.

NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE HELPLINE AND WEBSITE: If you have any questions about the National Minimum wage ring the national helpline on 0845 6000 687 or visit www.dti.gov.uk/employment/pay/. You can find out more about working time regulations which covers issues such as rest breaks, right to time off and working limits by visiting the DTI's website at www.dti.gov.uk/employment/employment-legislation/.

-- Time off for Study or Training

Working time regulations, Minimum Wage, Apprenticeships, NVQ's, Training

This legislation covers 16 or 17 year olds in employment who have not already gained qualifications to Level 2, which means 5 GCSEs at Grades A-C, an NVQ at Level 2, Intermediate GNVQ, a BTEC First Certificate/Diploma or City and Guilds Diploma of Vocational Education at Intermediate Level. Reasonable time off with pay is required to allow young people to study towards a recognised qualification. This could be in the workplace, with a training provider, at college or a combination of these. Connexions in Tyne and Wear - Connexions Hub Services in Tyne and Wear can help support both employers and young people in finding the most appropriate and effective ways to meeting this legislation and are able to offer information and guidance on training and/or education routes.

The following website provides general information about the legislation for employers and others who need the details, access to regulations and frequently asked questions. Visit www.dfes.gov.uk/tfst. You can find out more about working time regulations which covers issues such as rest breaks, right to time off and working limits by visiting the DTI's website at www.dti.gov.uk/employment/employment-legislation/. For a successful business, developing the employees you need for the future is key - Apprenticeships mean you can do just that. Whether you decide to develop existing staff or recruit new employees as Apprentices, your business will benefit. Visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk. The Department for education and skills website can give you more information about NVQs, why they exist and how they can help you. It also provides links to relevant websites, allowing you, the visitor, to gather more information according to your particular needs. Visit http://www.dfes.gov.uk/nvq/. North East Course finder can can help you find a course that might be suitable for you. You can discuss your findings with your Personal Adviser. Visit http://www.tap.co.uk/html3/index.php. Hot Courses can also help you find a course that might be suitable for you. You can discuss your findings with your Personal Adviser. Visit http://www.hotcourses.com. City and Guilds is regarded by employers as one of the most respected providers of vocational qualifications. They offer 500 different courses at all levels in everything from agriculture, plumbing and IT to engineering, childcare and sports. Visit their website at www.therealyou.org.uk or www.city-and-guilds.co.uk. Come and talk to staff in Your Local Connexions Centre in Tyne and Wear (consisting of Connexions Gateshead, Connexions Newcastle, Connexions South Tyneside, Connexions North Tyneside, Connexions Sunderland).

-- Working Time Regulations

Time off for Study or Training, Minimum Wage, Apprenticeships, NVQ's, Training

In July 2003 there were significant changes to the Working Time Regulations which specifically relate to the employment of a young worker i.e. someone who is above the minimum school leaving age but under 18. Hours of work: Young workers may not ordinarily work more than 40 hours a week or 8 hours a day. This does not include travel between home and work or rest breaks such as lunch breaks. Night time work: Young workers may not ordinarily work at night between 10 pm and 6 am or between 11 pm and 7 am in some cases. There are several exceptions to this and further guidance should be sought. Time off: special rules apply for Young workers as follows: Daily rest: Young workers are entitled to 12 uninterrupted hours in each 24 hour period. Weekly rest: Young workers are entitled to two days off each week. This cannot be averaged over a two-week period and should normally be two consecutive days. Rest breaks at work: Special rules for Young Workers state that if a young worker is required to work for more than four and a half hours at a stretch, they are entitled to a rest break of 30 minutes. You can find out more about working time regulations which covers issues such as rest breaks, right to time off and working limits by visiting the DTI's website at www.dti.gov.uk/employment/employment-legislation/. For help with matters relating to this, ACAS National Helpline can be contacted on 08457 474747 or refer to the ACAS website at: www.acas.org.uk.

-- Housing and Accommodation - information and support

Housing benefit, Council Tax, Income Support

Everyone has the right to live somewhere safe and be protected from the elements. Below you will find details about the different types of housing available to you and details of what to do if you find yourself homeless.

More on housing... Council Phone Numbers / Websites, Social Services