Written question asked by Danny Alexander (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 29 November 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 1 December 2005. It was answered by Baroness Hodge of Barking (Labour) on Monday, 12 December 2005 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Jobcentre Plus

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what services are provided by Integrated Jobcentre Plus customer-facing offices.

Answer: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, Lesley Strathie. She will write to the hon. Member.Letter from Lesley Strathie, dated 12 December 2005:"The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question regarding what services are provided by integrated Jobcentre Plus customer facing offices. This is something which falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.""Jobcentre Plus is gradually replacing social security offices and Jobcentres. Our customers can now make enquiries about their benefits and about job opportunities in one place.""The services available in our customer facing offices include:""Personal Advisers to provide tailored support to our customers and help with job readiness;""telephone contact facilities through dedicated ‘customer access phones' giving access to other Jobcentre Plus services;""a new appointment system to reduce queuing and waiting times; benefit assessment at the new claims stage;""touchscreen ‘Jobpoints' giving access to the largest database of vacancies in Europe;""general advice and direction; and""'employer suites' in some offices—providing recruitment facilities for employers.""The design and layout of the Jobcentre Plus offices also provides a modern, professional and welcoming environment for all our customers.""I hope this is helpful."

Secondary information