A new evaluation of the JobsPlus pilot scheme, which aims to provide targeted job support in ten communities across England, indicates significant potential for scalability. Launched with government backing, the initiative is designed to address the unique challenges faced by young people and residents of social housing, who often encounter barriers to employment.
JobsPlus: A Groundbreaking Initiative
The JobsPlus programme, spearheaded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in collaboration with the Youth Futures Foundation, focuses on intensive support within specific neighbourhoods predominantly comprised of social housing. This hyperlocal approach mirrors successful models seen in the United States, where community champions engage with hard-to-reach individuals who may feel disconnected from traditional employment pathways.
Statistics reveal a stark reality: residents of social housing are nearly twice as likely to be unemployed compared to the national average. Many participants in the JobsPlus scheme grapple with significant barriers, including caregiving responsibilities or health issues that complicate their job search.
Tailored Support for Local Communities
JobsPlus caseworkers offer personalised assistance, including financial aid for essentials like interview attire and transport, as well as connections to local employers, Jobcentre Plus offices, and NHS services. According to the evaluation, the pilots have succeeded in reaching residents who typically face greater challenges in entering the workforce, often requiring more extended support to achieve sustainable employment outcomes.
Between July 2024 and December of the same year, 27% of the more than 1,000 participants recorded positive employment outcomes, primarily transitioning from unemployment to new roles or improving their job situations. Participants have also reported notable improvements in mental health, including reduced anxiety and feelings of isolation, which are crucial for pursuing and maintaining employment.
Focus on Young People
A significant finding from the evaluation is that approximately 31% of those enrolled in JobsPlus are aged 16 to 24—a stark contrast to the 12% of local young people in the eligible areas. This demographic faces increasing challenges, with over one million young people in the UK classified as not in education, employment, or training (NEET) for the first time in ten years. The Labour Party, recognising this pressing issue, is keen to explore effective strategies to support young individuals in their transition to the workforce.
Stephen Evans, chief executive of the Learning and Work Institute, underscored the urgency of addressing this crisis: “With over a million young people now estimated to not be in education, employment or training, it’s time to move from analysis to action.” He praised the hyperlocal approach of JobsPlus as a proactive means of engaging with young people in their communities and providing comprehensive support.
Government Support and Future Plans
Diana Johnson, the minister for employment, expressed the need for innovative solutions, stating: “Too many young people are currently not accessing the support that exists to help them, and that must change.” She affirmed that JobsPlus is a vital initiative in reaching those who have fallen furthest from traditional support systems.
The evaluation, conducted by the independent Institute for Employment Studies, concluded that the JobsPlus pilot shows promise for national expansion. An additional feature of the initiative is the £400 bonus for individuals who secure employment and remain in their role for two months, although the evaluation noted that while this incentive is beneficial, it is not the primary driver of success.
Why it Matters
The JobsPlus pilot programme represents a crucial step towards addressing the persistent issues of unemployment and underemployment among vulnerable populations in England. By focusing on community-based support and tailored interventions for young people, the initiative not only aims to enhance employment rates but also fosters improved mental health and social cohesion. As the evaluation suggests, scaling this programme could provide a blueprint for tackling similar challenges across the country, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive labour market.
