SKILLS for Work is about getting the skills and qualifications you need to succeed in the career you want.

You can do a course to help you get a better job, have a career change or get back into work.

Basic skills - literacy, language and numeracy skills cover the ability to read, write and speak English or Welsh and to use mathematics at a level that enables you to function and progress at work and society in general.

Key skills are similar but include a wider range of skills.

The six key skills are communication, information technology, working with numbers, working with others, problem solving, improving your own learning and performance.

A good first step is to call the "Get On" helpline, provided by Learndirect Advice.

You'll get free and impartial advice on how you can do a free literacy, language and numeracy skills course near where you live and get a nationally recognised qualification.

You can also talk to an adviser at your local Jobcentre Plus office about basic skills training.

Also, if you need help with English because it isn't your first language, this may be included as part of a training programme.

As well as help with skills for work, your Jobcentre can help arrange help with practical things like filling in application forms, writing letters and CVs, and using the telephone.

If you are already working, your employer may provide free basic skills training at work - speak to the person responsible for human resources, personnel or training at your place of work.

You can access Learndirect online at www.learndirect-advice.co.uk