Your job options

We all have different ideas about what we want to do for work.

Maybe you'd like to work in a shop, work with animals, or become a doctor or teacher. It's okay to change your mind over time. It's also okay if you don't know what job you want.

For some jobs, you may need skills, while for others you may need a qualification. You get a qualification after passing a test or a course.

What having a job means to me

This video from Mencap explains why people love having jobs and why it makes them feel independent.

Talk to about your options

You may already have a job in mind, or you may have no idea and that's ok.

It's sometimes hard to know what you want to do in the future. Why not, sit down and talk through your ideas with your careers advisor, a family member or a trusted friend. They'll tell you what skills, qualifications or training you need.

To help you, why not think about:

• your likes and dislikes
• your skills and talents
• what is important to you
• your hopes for your future
• your interests.

National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi) have a great job profile documents that you can download and fill in about you and your dream job. The document helps you to describe your likes, dislikes, or the extra support at work.

For more help visit one of the below websites:

• the National Careers Service
• CXK
• Supported Employment Service
• Mencap
• Scope
• a career support service on our directory.

If you're a parent or a carer, visit Young Employment UK to read great advice.

Your options

Whether you're looking for a job or skills, here are some options to help you.

Apply for a job

When you find the job you want, you'll need to apply and hopefully get an interview.

Read our tips and guidance to help you get the job.