Source · Select Committees · Work and Pensions Committee
Recommendation 17
17
Deferred
Return jobseeker preferred sector pursuit period to three months for Jobcentre approach change.
Conclusion
As a first step to changing the approach of Jobcentres, DWP should return the period during which jobseekers can pursue opportunities in their preferred sector to 3 months. (Recommendation, Paragraph 92)
Government response summary AI-generated
The government's response focuses on capital investment in Jobcentre physical infrastructure and the Workplace Transformation Programme, detailing efforts to improve building design and technology, which does not address the recommendation about the job search period for preferred sectors.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government · verbatim extract
Deferred
Do not accept The period in which claimants may limit their jobsearch to their chosen field is known as the permitted period and is used in specific circumstances. This is in place to ensure that we allow claimants some time to focus on a particular sector or level of remuneration, providing clarity for work coaches to ensure we deliver a consistent service across our Jobcentre network. Once the permitted period has elapsed, work coaches will discuss transferrable skills with the claimant and support them to broaden their job goals into other sectors. This does not mean that claimants cannot continue to search for work in their preferred field. The changes to the way employment support is being delivered and will be delivered as we develop the Jobs and Careers Service represent a clear shift away from the ‘any job’ ethos. Work coaches are empowered to deliver support that is tailored to the individual’s needs and their local labour market. Work plans are created collaboratively, tailored to the claimant’s circumstances, encouraging a focus on sustainable employment. The permitted period is only applied where a claimant has previously carried out work of a particular nature, or at a particular level of remuneration, and we allow claimants flexibility in setting realistic job goals. We do not accept this recommendation at the current time but continue to keep the policy under review and will actively consider whether it remains appropriate in the current labour market.
Read the full response on Parliament ↗