× Search rightsnet
Search options

Where

Benefit

Jurisdiction

Jurisdiction

From

to

5 October, 2020 Open access

Government launches new employment programme to support those left jobless due to COVID-19

Job Entry Targeted Support will target certain universal credit and JSA claimants who have been out of work for at least 13 weeks

The government has launched a new employment programme to support those left jobless due to coronavirus (COVID-19).

The new Job Entry Targeted Support (JETS) programme will be delivered as part of the existing Work and Health Programme and will provide employment support to universal credit claimants in the 'All Work-related Requirements' group and New Style JSA claimants who have been unemployed for at least 13 weeks.

The government says -

'JETS will see the Department for Work and Pensions ramp up support for claimants to ensure those put forward for the scheme have access to tailored, flexible support to quickly get back into employment. The new programme will see a number of providers offer a range of help, including specialist advice on how people can move into growing sectors, as well as CV and interview coaching.

The programme will also give job hunters the boost they need to return to employment through an action plan agreed with their personal Work Coach, peer support and opportunities to build their skills.'

The new programme goes live today in parts of the East Midlands, North East England, Southern England, London and Wales, with further areas going live later in October 2020, and Scotland early next year.

NB - the DWP has today updated its temporary guidance for Work and Health Programme providers for use during the COVID-19 pandemic to now also include guidance on Job Entry Targeted Support. The updated guidance advises -

'JETS provides a light touch provision that includes, but is not limited to, transferable skills analysis, CV writing, job search, interview skills, self-efficacy and confidence-building in the post-COVID-19 environment and takes a sector-based approach and helps individuals who:

  • are of working age (16 in Wales, and 18 in England to State Pension age);
  • are motivated to find work and require light touch employment support;
  • have the right to reside and enter employment in England or Wales ...'

The guidance also makes clear that elements of the Work and Health Programme are not applicable to JETS, including self-referral and early access for disadvantaged groups.

For more information, see Nation's job hunt JETS off from gov.uk