Below is a selection of questions that our advisors are frequently asked. If you have any further questions, you can either contact us on 0800 107 4060, or make an appointment with an advisor by clicking here.
What is a CV, how can I get one?
A CV is a tool used by employers to assess potential employees' suitability for a job. A good CV will help you to secure a job interview. It may also, if done properly, grab the attention of an employer if you apply " on spec" for a post that has not yet been advertised. A CV should be no longer than 2 pages in length and contain relevant experience and education from the past five years (minimum). You could also tailor a CV for a specific career pathway or job advertisement. Should you require any further assistance or information relating to CV's then you should contact your nearest nextstep adviser click here or see our learning and work tools
What, when and how can I study?
A huge range of courses are available for adults, ranging from leisure courses to degrees. Study can be full time, part time, evening & weekends, distance learning or on-line learning. nextstep can provide advice on the most suitable subject for you and what's available in your area. Alternatively click here for more information.
How can I get help with childcare costs?
Some course providers offer creche facilities and have learner support funds that can help with the cost of childcare.
The funds are prioritised for those who face financial hardship. They can be used to help with:
- financial hardship and emergencies
- childcare costs (for Ofsted-registered childcare)
- accommodation costs, for those who have to study beyond daily travelling distance
- travel costs
- essential course-related equipment, materials and field trips
For further information please see www.direct.gov.uk
How can i get help on getting a job or finding learning?
The nextstep service is a completely free advice service available to Adults aged 20+, living or working in Greater Manchester who do not hold a full level 3 qualification. We can help with all aspects of finding a job, changing your career or finding out about learning. If you would like to make an appointment with a nextstep adviser click here. If you are ineligible for nextstep, some areas do have a free service for all adults or you can contact learndirect on 0800 100 900 for free telephone advice.
Why should I study to get better qualifications?
Further training and development could help you gain the job you have always wanted or even a promotion. Soon all jobs will need at least a level 2 aualification. Employers look for employees with good qualifications or skills that have been recognised. Many jobs now need at least a level 2 qualification and low skilled jobs are in decline.
How can I improve my Maths and English?
English and Maths courses, called Skills for Life classes, are widely available and are free. nextstep can advise you on the courses available in your area. You can contact your nearest nexstep adviser click here who may be able to inform you of where the nearest Skills for Life Classes will be, contact our freephone helpline on 0800 107 4060
How can I improve my Computer Skills?
Computer skills classes are widely available and most basic ones are free. nextstep can advise you on the courses available in your area. To book an appointment with you nearest local nextstep adviser click here or contact our freephone helpline on 0800 107 4060.
Will I have to pay for my courses?
This depends on what course you want to study and if you are receiving benefits. Click here to make an appointment to see a nextstep adviser who will be able to contact the course provider to find out. Or alternativley contact our freephone helpline 0800 107 4060.
We cannot find you a job, but we can help you to develp the tools necessary to find a job, i.e help with CV, where to look for vacancies, job search and interview skills. Contact your nextstep adviser for more details or visit our Find a job.
Is there a nextstep service near my house?
We have centres in locations all around Greater Manchester, many in local community venues like libraries. To find your nearest nextstep centre and to book an appointment please click here
What can I do if my qualifications are not from this country?
You can check the UK equivalent of your qualifications by contacting NARIC at www.naric.org.uk who will charge you a small fee. Alternatively you could contact your nearest nextstep centre who may be able to help you with this.
Can I still learn if I am on benefits?
Most benefits allow you to study up to a specific number of hours per week. Contact your local jobcentre plus fo advice.
Can I still learn if I am still working?
New schemes such as Train 2 Gain provide employees with the opportunity to gain qualifications whilst at work and help employers to support them, for more information go to click here. Many providers offer courses in the evenings, weekends, online or through distance learning at home.
Will I be better off if I work?
Contact the job centre and ask for a "better off" calculation which will assist you in deciding if you will be better off working. www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk
I have a criminal record can I still get help?
Yes, a nextstep advisor can advise you on how to disclose your criminal record to potential employers and they also know of the expert help available in your area. If you would like to book an appointment with a nextstep adviser click here
How many times can I see a nextstep adviser?
You can see a nextstep adviser for a number of sessions and for as long as you and they feel necessary
What if English is not my first language and I cannot understand an adviser?
We do have a number of bi-lingual adviser working for nextstep and all our advisers are experienced in helping people whose first language isn't English. We may also be able to arrange an interpreter for you or alternatively learndirect have a bi-lingual advice service.
Gujarati - 0800 093 1119 
Punjabi - 0800 093 1333 
Somali - 0800 093 1555 
Sylheti - 0800 093 1444 
Urdu - 0800 093 1118 
Farsi - 0800 093 1116 
Polish - 0800 093 1114 
French - 0800 093 1115 
What when and how can I get voluntary work?
You can explore all of this with your nextstep advisor who has information about local volunteer agencies and how to contact them or you could visit www.do-it.org.uk for a list of volunteering opportunities in your area.