Pathways to Employment: Your guide to a career in substance use services

Financial support

Employment can provide independence, achievement, regular pay, as well as a sense of purpose which can help your own personal recovery journey.

Will starting work affect any financial benefits I receive?

If you are in receipt of any benefits, then it is important you understand if employment could affect your finances.

Where can I find support?

• There is guidance from the Department for Work and Pensions on claiming benefits whilst volunteering.
• Social Security Scotland helps people by providing social security payments. If you are in receipt of additional financial support, you may be directed to information allowing you to understand the implications of taking on a new role or increasing hours.
• You can call Social Security Scotland for free on 0800 182 2222 or they can also be reached through post and webchat.
• Citizens Advice also have a range of support available on their website or you can search for your local Citizens Advice Bureau. You can also call their helpline on 0800 028 1456.

Will my Universal Credit be affected when I start work?

Universal Credit can be made available to you even after you begin working and aims to ensure that you are financially better off in employment. You may be able to receive top up payments to your wages every month.

How much Universal Credit will I get?

If you or your partner are working, how much Universal Credit you receive will depend on any earnings. There is no limit to how many hours you can work and still get Universal Credit.

What if my wages increase or I stop working?

If your wages increase, your Universal Credit payment will reduce. If you stop working or your wages decrease, your payment will increase. For every £1 you earn from working, your Universal Credit payment goes down by 55p. Your total income will be your wages plus your new Universal Credit payment.

• Further guidance on Universal Credit information for claimants is available.
• There is also helpful guidance on how earnings affects your Universal Credit depending on your circumstances.
• There is also a benefits calculator to help you understand how your Universal Credit may change if your pay increases.

Please continue to check this information as this will be subject to change. This can also vary depending on your own personal circumstances so it is important to be aware of that and ensure you seek support where required.

How can I look after my mental wellbeing?

Your mental wellbeing is important. This is just as important to look after along with your physical health. If you need to access support, then some of the organisations here can help:

• Breathing Space
• Mental Health Foundation
• Mental health - Citizens Advice
• Mental health services at NHS 24
• Scottish Action for Mental Health

You can also find advice on building your self-confidence available from the NHS Inform self-esteem self-help guide.