Source · Select Committees · Business and Trade Committee
Recommendation 41
41
Acknowledged
Returnerships offer valuable opportunities for workers of all ages requiring future evaluation.
Recommendation
We consider that such a process could be valuable for workers of all ages and that a review is conducted one year following implementation of returnships to evaluate their benefit more widely. (Paragraph 215) 72 Post-pandemic economic growth: UK labour markets
Government Response Summary
The government states it is promoting returnership pathways through various campaigns and Jobcentre Plus, and will continue to monitor the uptake of apprenticeships and related programmes, but does not explicitly commit to conducting a formal review of returnships one year after implementation.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government is promoting returnerships pathways (SWAPS, skills bootcamps and apprenticeships) through the DfE’s Skills for Life campaign and through Jobcentre Plus communications channels to increase awareness of these options amongst the over 50s. When engaging with 50+ claimants, Work Coaches will consider the suitability of referral to Returnerships provision as part of the employment and skills assessment (triage) offered to all claimants, referring those who would benefit from this help to locally available provision support. By providing additional funding and highlighting this as an offer to people currently out of work, the government is taking steps to drive down inactivity and boost our economy. We will continue to monitor the uptake of apprenticeships and related programmes, including by those aged over 50. Levels of apprenticeship starts are subject to demand by employers who decide which apprenticeships they offer and when, as well as individuals choosing to apply for apprenticeship vacancies which are open to people of all ages and backgrounds.