Job Centre Plus

My first experience of Finsbury Park Job Centre Plus hasn't been all that bad. Unfortunately Job Centres in London have long since held a reputation for being dreary, inefficient and uninspiring places manned by staff who are less than helpful. I'm pleased to say that's not been my overall impression of FP JCP. After seeking guidance regarding self employment, I've received some useful information regarding courses and workshops which have all been constructive and provided good insight into an area I don't have much experience. Yes, there are days when they are a little over stretched staff wise and you can be waiting for an appointment longer than you'd like, but on the whole, I've been seen promptly, had my query dealt with efficiently and been given good signposting. The main areas of improvement I can see are in the centre's ability to provide a wider range of professional career opportunities and also the lack of joined-up working with independent recruiters which I believe would generate greater pool of jobs for both short and long-term unemployed clients. With changes to the benefits structure this year, there are many challenges which the centre are currently facing, but on the whole, with the right staff in place, they appear to be handling the change in processes and communicating them to clients well. Others, I'm sure may take a different view depending on their own personal circumstances