The (In)Flexible Support Fund is failing people trying to move into work

Starting or returning to work can come with hidden costs like childcare, new work clothes and travel to interviews or training.

If you can’t cover these costs, starting a new job or increasing your hours can be impossible. The Flexible Support Fund (FSF) is a government fund offered by Job Centres to improve people’s job prospects.

The FSF can help pay for things like travelling to a job interview, clothing or equipment needed for work, and attending training. It can now also help cover the upfront costs of childcare.

It isn’t a loan, so you don’t need to pay back the money you get. For many people, accessing the FSF could be the difference between getting a new job or staying unemployed. But all too often, the people we help miss out on the support available.

Find out more by reading this recent Citizens Advice blog.