New Deal has a lot of mandatory elements, re attendance etc. You do not have to be on New Deal to go on a Work Trial, anyone in reciept of any benefit can go on a work trial. There has to be a vacancy with an employer in order for this to happen. Trial can last for up to 15 working days, you remain on benefit but get travel and lunch expenses. At the end of the trial period, all things going well, you may be offered a job. There is however no obligation on you to take the job or the employer to offer it to you. Also your benefits will not be affected if you turn down the job. An adviser in your jobcentre will be happy to discuss.