Okay, your email is the reason that you're being ignored, but never mind, this is what you need to do ...
Depending on what sort of work you're looking for, you're probably better off visiting the agencies in person than emailing them. This way if they need you to take computerised tests you can do it whilst you're there, and they can also interview you right then and there.
The following general agencies are usually quite good so start with them:
- Adecco
- Kelly Services
- Brook Street
Phone your local branches of each of them and ask how you would go about registering with them. I believe Brook Street usually asks that you just drop in, and the others ask you to make an appointment, but this may have changed.
When you have an appointment to register, ask if there is anything that you need to take with you. Usually, they'll ask for the following:
- A copy of your CV
- Your passport as proof that you are eligible to work in the UK
- Contact details of two referees - if you have written references then you can take them, but they'll still need contact details
- Your bank details and NI number if you are looking for temporary work, as in this case it will be the agency paying you, not the employer
When you go in, dress as smartly as possible. If you have a suit wear it; if not just wear smart business attire. Remember, they'll think that the impression you make with them is the impression you'll make with a client when they send you out on a job, so if you're scruffy this may limit the type of jobs they'd send you to.
In order to register you, they'll probably take a look at your CV and talk about what you've done in the past. They'll then ask you what type of work you're looking for and why. It won't be as formal as a proper job interview, but you should still take it seriously and speak in a business-like manner.
Then if you need to take computer tests, they'll have you do those. Afterwards, they're usually happy to share results, so make sure you ask if they don't volunteer to tell you. If you know what your weak points are you can work on them. If you got a surprisingly low score - e.g. you thought you had a fantastic typing speed but you tested at 20 words per minute - then it might be worth asking if you can take the test again.
At the end, the Consultant who registers you will give you their business card so that you have their contact details. If you don't hear from them, I would aim to call that person twice weekly - say Monday and Thursday mornings - so that they don't forget you and they're aware that you're looking for work.
I would advise that you register with as many agencies as possible, but you do need to be honest with them if they ask if you're registered with others. Otherwise, the agencies will all be putting you forwards for the same jobs and this will make them look unprofessional, so they won't want to work with you.