Benefits revamp for jobless

MINISTERS will today launch a benefits crackdown designed to get half a million unemployed people back to work by the end of June.

The UK Government will unveil new rules to force benefits claimants to take a job more quickly.

Under the Way to Work campaign, those deemed capable of work will be expected to take jobs in any sector much sooner than they are at present.

Currently, people are allowed to look for jobs only in the sector where they used to work for three months, before they have to search more widely to hold on to their benefits. That period will be reduced to four weeks. In addition, jobless people will get more face-to-face time with work coaches.

The crackdown will be seen as an example of a ‘red meat’ policy designed to make the Prime Minister more popular with Tory backbenchers and voters.

Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey said: ‘Way to Work is a step change, making sure our job centre network and work coaches can deliver opportunities, jobs and prosperity to all areas of the country.

‘As we emerge from Covid, we are going to tackle supply challenges and support the continued economic recovery by getting people into work.’

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: ‘It’s important that everyone has the opportunity and support to find a good job.

‘That’s why we’re doubling down on our Plan for Jobs with this new campaign. Together we will boost this country’s jobs-led recovery.’

Latest figures from the Office for National Statistics show there is great demand for workers, with a record 1. million vacancies, 59 per cent higher than prepandemic. Major employers including Balfour Beatty, Whitbread Group, TalkTalk, Bourne Leisure and Ocado are already throwing their weight behind the campaign.