Abstracts: December 12th, 2007

The Department for Work and Pensions has set out a greater role for the private and third sector in its strategy to tackle worklessness. The strategy signals a radical change in the way help and support is provided to get the most disadvantaged into work.

Private and third sector organisations will be paid to get the long-term jobless into long-term jobs and to make sure they stay in work. Some 20 percent of contracts will be reserved for new entrants to the market and they will be encouraged to bring innovation and value. This fresh approach aims to utilise all the talent and skill available.

The contract structure will allow for packages based on city regions but will also ensure coverage of rural areas. Contracts will also increasingly link with local initiatives such as Local and Multi Area Agreements and the City Strategy.

The strategy is available at the Department for Work and Pensions.
http://www.dwp.gov.uk/publications/dwp/2007/com-strategy/cs-interim-report-07.pdf