A sector-based work academy programme (SWAPs) is an opportunity to learn new skills and get experience of working in a particular industry, for example care, construction or warehouse work.

The programme is designed to help jobseekers, who are claiming either Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), to build confidence, improve job prospects and enhance CVs.

SWAPs last up to six weeks, and consist of three parts:

• pre-employment training – a short module of vocational training run by a local college or training provider,
• work experience with an employer in the industry, where you can learn new skills on the job,
• at the end of the programme, either a job interview with an employer in the sector or if an interview cannot be offered, help with the application process.

If you are a jobseeker visit Getting a job in a new industry: how SWAPs can help

If you are an Employer visit Sector-based work academy programme: employer guide