Jessica O'ConnorThousands of people across the UK who are currently out of work due to health conditions, disabilities, or complex personal circumstances are set to receive a significant boost in support, following the announcement of a £100m funding package by the Department for Work and Pensions today, Friday 11th July.
The funding is part of the Government’s broader “Get Britain Working” initiative, which aims to overhaul the employment support system, modernise Jobcentres, and ensure well-paid job opportunities are available across the country.
The £103.6m investment will be directed towards the Connect to Work programme, which will operate in Kent & Medway, Gloucestershire, Hertfordshire, and Greater Lancashire.
This initiative is expected to support nearly 30,000 people in these areas.
With 2.8 million people currently out of work due to ill-health – among the highest rates in the G7 – Connect to Work is a critical component of the Government’s wider Plan for Change to tackle economic inactivity and lift people out of poverty.
Minister for Employment Alison McGovern said: “For too long, our country has been held back as towns and cities were left on their own to deal with the consequences of people being out of work.
“This Government is investing to create good jobs, and our plan to Get Britain Working will make sure no one is left on the scrap heap any more.
“Changing Jobcentres and providing funding for towns and cities will make sure everyone is included in our economic plan. No more abandoned places.
“This latest funding will make a real difference in the lives of people across the country and give them the chance they deserve as part of our Plan for Change.”
Connect to Work is already being rolled out across England and Wales, with more than £150m in funding to support around 41,000 individuals.
Over the next five years, the programme aims to assist more than 300,000 people.
