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Dept for Work and Pensions;Jobcentre Plus

Answer

Mr. Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what provision is made at Job Centres for people who have (a) poor literacy standards and (b) no information technology skills with respect to helping them find jobs; and if he will make a statement. [195503] Jane Kennedy: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, David Anderson. He will write to the hon. Member. Letter from David Anderson to Mr. Laurence Robertson, dated 2 November 2004: The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question concerning the provision made at job centres for people who have poor literacy standards and no information technology skills with respect to helping them find jobs. In April 2001 Jobcentre Plus introduced its strategy for identifying customers with literacy, numeracy and language needs and a suite of provision to help improve those skills. This involved Jobcentre Plus screening all jobseekers for literacy, numeracy and language needs at or before their six-month interview. Those identified with a potential need are offered referral to an independent contractor to assess their current skill levels and identify the most appropriate provision to help meet their needs. For those assessed as requiring a small amount of assistance to improve their skills Jobcentre Plus offers a Short Intensive Basic Skills course. This course lasts for up to eight weeks, incorporates job search activities and aims to help participants achieve the National test at level 1. For customers assessed as requiring more in-depth help to improve their skills, Basic Employability Training for customers aged 25 and over, and Full Time Education and Training for 18 to 24 year olds offer up to 26 weeks learning in a work context tailored to individual need. These programmes can be extended for up to 52 weeks for participants requiring more help and both aim to improve skills by at least one level and offer work placements and job search activities. For those customers with an identified need for training in Information Technology, and who are eligible for Work Based Learning for Adults, New Deal for Young People (NDYP) or New Deal for Adults aged 25 and over (ND25 plus), appropriate training can be provided through these programmes to enable participants to be able to compete more effectively in the labour market. The training that is offered will differ according to the needs of each customer and is dependent on what is available in their local area.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

195503; 426 c247-8W

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Advisory services Employment Jobcentres ICT Government assistance Training Vocational guidance Literacy Employment Service

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk