DWP to offer 100,000 work placements for some benefits claimants

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that individuals on specific unemployment benefits could gain from Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs), providing training, work placements, and a guaranteed job interview in sectors with numerous vacancies like hospitality and construction.

Last financial year saw a notable success, with 86,640 SWAP places being provided, exceeding the UK Government's goal of 80,000, assisting many into employment, and leading to an increase in people's income.

Anticipating an upswing in available positions to 100,000 during this fiscal year and pushing towards an ambitious 80 per cent employment target, the DWP is reinforcing its commitment to the Government's growth plans, reports .

These developments are part of broader initiatives aimed at increasing personal incomes and elevating living standards as promised in the Plan for Change.

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall MP, said: "SWAPs help people to stay in work for longer and boost their pay, while getting businesses loyal staff with the right skills."

She further elaborated on the scheme's expansion by adding: "That's why we are boosting the scheme even further next year, giving even more people access to these life-changing opportunities."

Kendall emphasised the support's importance, stating: "This kind of support is crucial to get people back to work, as we continue to unlock growth, improve living standards and break down barriers to opportunity for people across the country with our Plan for Change."

All jobless benefit claimants aged 16 or over in Scotland or England who are on Universal Credit, Jobseeker's Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance, and do not require additional support, are eligible for assistance into employment through the SWAPs programme.

The scheme is designed to address a lack of basic employability skills and forms part of the government's strategy to Get Britain Working by revamping jobcentres, combating inactivity and enhancing outcomes for jobseekers.

Earlier this year, DWP research revealed that SWAP participants remain in their jobs for up to three months longer on average, earn up to £1,400 more, and save taxpayers over £350 per person compared to those who do not participate in the scheme.

Over the last financial year, there were more than 86,000 SWAPs, bringing the total number of SWAPs places to 370,560 since the scheme was launched in April 2021.

As part of the wider expansion of SWAPs to 100,000 places this financial year, a new Hospitality SWAPs pilot will be available in 26 new areas with the greatest need for new jobs and opportunities, including 13 coastal towns such as Scarborough and Blackpool.

In addition, as part of the Plan for Change, the UK Government is also increasing the National Living Wage and creating more secure jobs through the Employment Rights Bill to make work pay and keep Britain working.

Jobcentres, in collaboration with employers and training providers, develop SWAPs. These opportunities are available in job sectors with a high number of current local vacancies.