Today the Government announced its plans to lift one million people off incapacity benefit and into work. But this ambitious target will require a radical shift in the delivery of welfare to work services, says the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, (REC) the trade association for the UKís private recruitment industry.
Commenting on the announcement, Tom Hadley, the RECís Director of External Relations said: ìMoving one million people from benefits into work will require a commitment from both sides. Government needs to ensure that these people are work ready before they are required to seek jobs.
ìIncapacity benefits claimants may have multiple disadvantages, from physical disabilities to mental health issues. An effective training and support package is essential. Recruitment professionals can play a key advisory role to ensure that this training reflects the skills needed in work.î
Tom Hadley continued: ìAs recruitment agencies are a key entry point into the labour market, the REC recognises that we need to support recruitment agencies in placing these candidates. The RECís diversity programme is aimed at the small businesses that largely make up the recruitment industry and is a good first step in understanding the needs of these candidates.
ìAs the Government develops its welfare to work plans, the REC will be seeking opportunities for recruitment agencies to inform and deliver these services as well as working with other organisations to improve the awareness of disabilities and mental health issues.î
Getting people off Incapacity Benefit and into work requires a commitment from both sides
Comment from REC
