DSP provides community based employment programmes to make learning accessible in local areas. Programmes are organised in conjunction with community, voluntary and public organisations.

Community Employment (CE) and Job Initiative are employment programmes primarily aimed at the long-term unemployed and other disadvantaged groups. CE offers participants an opportunity to engage in useful work within their communities on a temporary, fixed-term basis. In this way, local organisations help to develop their area by Sponsoring Programmes, typically in the areas of social services, healthcare, heritage, arts, culture, tourism, sport, environment and education.

Job Clubs offer practical advice and assistance in finding a job.

The Travellers Initiative Programme offers targeted support, while other DSP resources based in the community are the DSP assists for people with disabilities to find a job through the Supported Employment Programme. Further information can be found at Equality and Inclusion.

DSP gives financial support in the form of Allowances and Funding to assist with its programmes, for example training and, where eligibility applies, travel, accommodation, meals and childcare.

Finally, any group or individual interested in sponsoring or participating in any of the community services above should contact their local Employment Services Office.