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A pioneering job support initiative in England is showing early signs of success, particularly for young people facing significant barriers to employment. The JobsPlus programme, funded by the government, aims to provide targeted assistance in ten neighbourhoods, with the potential for national expansion based on its positive outcomes.
A Localised Approach to Employment Support
Launched in 2024, the JobsPlus scheme focuses on areas with a high concentration of social housing, where unemployment rates are notably elevated. The programme is a collaboration between the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Youth Futures Foundation, an independent non-profit dedicated to improving opportunities for young people. By employing “community champions” at each site, the initiative seeks to engage residents who are often hardest to reach, providing them with the support needed to navigate their way into the job market.
The evaluation of the pilot programme indicates that over 27% of the more than 1,000 participants have successfully transitioned from unemployment into jobs, or, for some, secured improved employment opportunities. Caseworkers offer one-on-one support, helping clients with practical needs such as interview clothing and transportation, while also connecting them with local employers and essential services.
Addressing Mental Health and Employment Barriers
The benefits of the JobsPlus initiative extend beyond mere job placements. Participants have reported significant improvements in mental health, including reduced anxiety, heightened resilience, and a decrease in feelings of social isolation. Many individuals highlighted that these emotional and psychological enhancements were crucial for them to feel ready to apply for jobs and retain employment once secured.
Among the participants, a notable 31% are aged between 16 and 24, which starkly contrasts with the 12% representation of this age group in the eligible local populations. This discrepancy underlines the acute need for targeted support in this demographic, particularly as the number of young people not engaged in employment, education, or training (NEET) has surpassed one million for the first time in a decade.
Community Engagement: A Key to Success
The programme’s success is rooted in its hyperlocal approach. By providing services directly within the community, the JobsPlus initiative reduces barriers to access and fosters a supportive environment for those seeking employment. Lyndsey Henry, a caseworker involved in the Stockton-on-Tees pilot, emphasised the importance of building clients’ confidence: “Everything is done within the community so that [clients] don’t have to venture out as much. Sometimes it’s about building their confidence,” she remarked.
The initiative is already receiving attention from policymakers, as Labour seeks innovative solutions to assist young people in finding employment. With the former minister Alan Milburn reviewing the situation, the urgency for effective strategies has never been more pressing.
Government Support and Future Expansion
Diana Johnson, the Minister for Employment, expressed her commitment to ensuring young people access the support they need. “Too many young people are currently not accessing the support that exists to help them, and that must change,” she stated. Johnson highlighted that JobsPlus is an essential part of the government’s broader initiative to guarantee every young person the opportunity to earn or learn.
The evaluation, conducted by the Institute for Employment Studies, suggests that the hyperlocal model could be scaled nationally to benefit even more communities. One component of the pilot includes a £400 “into work bonus” for participants who secure and maintain employment for two months. While seen as beneficial, the evaluation noted that this financial incentive was not the core driver of success.
Why it Matters
As the UK grapples with soaring youth unemployment, initiatives like JobsPlus are not just timely; they are essential. By addressing the unique challenges faced by vulnerable communities, this programme not only aids in economic recovery but also fosters a sense of hope and agency among young people. Supporting individuals in overcoming barriers to employment can lead to a healthier, more resilient society, making a significant impact on future generations.
