£100m cash boost to help people who lose their jobs

As the UK stands up to the challenges of the global economic climate Work and Pensions Secretary James Purnell and Skills Secretary John Denham have joined forces to announce a cash injection of £100m over the next three years to give help to people who lose their jobs.

The extra cash will be available for people who are currently facing redundancy and those looking for work to help them re-train and develop their skills so that they can move back into sustainable employment, either in their existing sector or a new one.

The additional money will come from the European Social Fund and funding from DIUS.

This money will enable people to choose what they need from a range of approved training providers.

The money will be used to pay for anything from new skills or qualifications to get people ready for work, to on-the-job training in an entirely different field.

The money will be targeted to help, for example, people from sectors experiencing significant job losses and people who need support to move back to work.

Rochdale’s Labour Parliamentary Candidate, Simon Danczuk, said: “The prime minister has said he’ll do whatever is necessary to help the country through these difficult economic times. This extra cash will give a helping hand back into work for those people in Rochdale who might be affected by the turbulence. So I welcome this step.”

Work and Pensions Secretary James Purnell said: “At a time like this we need to do everything in our power to help people who lose their job. These are uncertain times and the clear message I want to send to people is that there is help is out there if the worst happens and they find themselves unemployed.

“I am delighted that John and I are able to come together and target this extra £100million to people when they most need our help so that they are in the best position possible to get back into work as soon as they can.”

Skills Secretary John Denham said: "People who lose their jobs need support to get back into work including the chance to improve their skills where necessary. That is why James and I have decided the £100 million available is best spent in this way. This extra funding will help the Learning and Skills Council, with local colleges and training providers, to work closely with Jobcentre Plus to make sure those people affected get access to the services they need as quickly as possible."