Work placement plan for jobless

Unemployed people could soon be forced to take up job placements or face losing their benefits under Government plans.

Jobcentre Plus advisers will be able to refer people claiming jobseeker’s allowance (JSA) into mandatory work placements if the adviser believes it would benefit the claimant long term.

The move is aimed at helping people experience the habit and routine of working life, with the participant expected to spend up to 30 hours a week for four weeks in the work placement.

The advisers can refer any claimant they think needs more “focus” on getting back into the workplace once they have been claiming JSA for 13 weeks.

Employment minister Chris Grayling, said: “If Jobcentre Plus advisers believe a jobseeker would benefit from getting some experience of the work environment they can now refer them on to a work activity placement. These placements are all about getting people into a working routine if they need an additional push to get into employment.

“This is beneficial to some jobseekers as it will allow them to develop more of a ‘work-orientated mindset’ but it also makes them a much more appealing prospect for an employer looking to fill a vacancy, and more confident when they enter the workplace.
“We are determined to break the habit of worklessness and get those who can work into jobs.”

The placements will cover a range of roles, including maintenance work for housing, renovating and recycling old furniture, working in a local sports club or supporting charitable organisations.

The scheme will be run by the private, voluntary and third sector.

Three areas across the country are trialling the move and the Government wants the scheme rolled out nationwide from June.

Ministers say every work placement will offer the jobseeker the opportunity to gain fundamental work disciplines and will be of benefit to the local community.

People who are referred and fail to complete the placement “without good cause” will lose their JSA benefits for at least three months.