A good first step is staying in touch with the people who are supporting you, whether that's your probation worker, mentor, support worker or Jobcentre Plus Work Coach. They can help you access opportunities, remove barriers and connect you with services that can support your next steps.

Not always. Whether you need to tell an employer about a conviction depends on the type of job you're applying for and whether your conviction is spent or unspent. Find out more on the GOV.UK website:Ex-offenders and employment

When you’re looking for support with your next steps, our website brings together information, advice and opportunities to help young people and adults move towards employment, education and training. Explore our dedicated support pages to find the help that's right for you:Choose a careerFind a jobFurther study and training opportunitiesSecure an apprenticeshipSet up your own businessGet work ready skillsVolunteering and work experience There’s also support around health and wellbeing, and housing and financial support in the All About You sections, so if you need information about local services that can support your next steps, or offer support with the practical challenges you are facing, you don’t have to tackle this alone! Need advice with something not covered on the website? Email skillslaunchpad@plymouth.gov.uk and one of the team will be in touch to try and signpost you to one of our partners.

Jobcentre Plus PlymouthIf you're claiming benefits, your Work Coach can help you find jobs, training and support programmes that match your goals. There are also specialist Work Coaches who support people with experience of the criminal justice system.Find your local office: https://find-your-nearest-jobcentre.dwp.gov.uk Housing supportWorried about where you're going to live? Don't wait until you're in crisis. Plymouth City Council's Housing Advice Team can help you understand your options and access support. Find out more: https://www.plymouth.gov.uk/housing Health and wellbeing supportLooking after your mental health and wellbeing is just as important as finding work or training.Livewell Southwest offers local support with wellbeing, mental health and substance misuse services.Find support: Livewell Southwest

CFO Activity HubThe Creating Future Opportunities (CFO) Activity Hub helps people build confidence, develop skills and prepare for employment, education or training. Support is tailored to your situation and can include:one-to-one guidancementoring and encouragementconfidence buildingpersonal development activitiestraining opportunitieshelp preparing for work or learning. You may be eligible if you:are aged 18 or overare currently in custody or on probationhave the right to live and work in the UK. Find out more: Creating Future Opportunities If you're already working with probation, a support worker, Work Coach or careers adviser, ask them about a referral. ShekinahShekinah supports people who may be facing challenges in their lives and need help getting back into employment, education or training. Their programmes are flexible and designed around your individual needs, helping you move forward at your own pace. Find out more: Shekinah LandWorksLandWorks helps people leaving prison gain skills, confidence and work experience while preparing for employment and life in the community. Find out more: LandWorks UnlockUnlock provides free advice and support for people with criminal records, helping you understand your rights and overcome barriers to work, education and training. Find out more: Unlock CASS+CASS+ provides practical support and advice across Devon and Cornwall, helping people access services and make positive changes in their lives. Find out more: CASS+ Be OnsiteInterested in construction? Be Onsite helps people facing barriers to employment access training, qualifications and careers in the construction industry. Find out more: Be Onsite Project NovaProject Nova supports veterans who have been arrested or are at risk of arrest, helping them access specialist support and move forward positively. Find out more: Project Nova

Everyone's journey is different. You might be ready to apply for jobs, start training, volunteer, improve your wellbeing or simply take the first step towards something new. What's important is that you keep moving forward. There are people across Plymouth who believe in second chances and are ready to support you with your next steps into employment, education and training.