Getting Ready · Easy Read
Getting Ready, one step at a time.
This page has short words and clear steps. It covers choosing, preparing, starting work, fixing problems, leaving work and getting practical help.
You can use this page on your own or with someone you trust. You do not have to share your care experience to use it.
How to use this page
You can start anywhere.
Choose the group that feels right. You can stop, come back, or ask someone to read it with you. The words “official information” mean a link to the organisation that makes the rules or gives the service.
1 · Choose
I do not know what to do yet.
It is okay not to know. Try one idea. Your choice can change later.
Explore an idea
Look at Careers Wales My Future.
Notice your skills
Write down three things you can do. Caring, hobbies and school count too.
Talk to someone
Ask Careers Wales to help you explore.
2 · Prepare
I want to get ready for work or training.
You can prepare one small thing at a time.
Find a job
Use Careers Wales’ job guide. Read the advert slowly.
Make an application
Use a CV or application. Use examples from your life. Ask for a reasonable adjustment if you want one.
Learn while working
An apprenticeship is a paid job with learning. Ask Working Wales.
Try a business idea
Big Ideas Wales can help you test an idea.
3 · Start
I have a job offer or I am starting work.
You can ask questions before you say yes and on your first day.
Check the offer
Check the role, pay, hours, place, start date and probation.
Plan your first day
Ask who will meet you. Plan travel. Ask about clothes, equipment and documents.
Read your payslip
It shows pay before and after deductions. Use GOV.UK payslip information.
Ask if something is unclear
Acas can explain job offers and work rights.
4 · Fix or leave
Something is wrong, or my job has ended.
You deserve safety and fair treatment. You can ask for help before making a big decision.
Keep a record
Keep messages, rotas, hours, payslips and dates.
Get work advice
Ask Acas or Citizens Advice Wales.
Leaving a job
Ask about notice, final pay, holiday and your P45.
Money or housing changed?
Tell your Personal Adviser. Use GOV.UK changes of circumstances.
5 · Practical help
I need help with things around work.
It is okay to ask about small things. They can make work possible.
Make a list
Do you need ID, travel, clothes, equipment, food, money or a bank account?
Ask your council team
Ask your Personal Adviser or leaving-care team. The right council may not be where you live now.
Money and benefits
Use MoneyHelper or a benefits adviser. VFCC does not calculate benefits.
Care rights
Read the care-rights page. It is currently English-only.
People who can help
You do not have to do it alone.
Ask for a conversation, a call, help reading a letter or help making a plan.
Use the full guide if you want more detail: Getting Ready.
Important
Check the live information.
Pay, benefits, programme rules, vacancies, contacts and council help can change. This page gives general information. Open the official link or ask a person before you rely on it.
Last reviewed: .
Go back to the full Getting Ready guide →