The DWP work support scheme in disarray has sparked alarm among government officials, who say rushed plans to get benefit claimants into jobs are “undeliverable.” Ministers promised a £1bn employment program, but insiders claim poor preparation and staffing gaps threaten its success.
Originally set for 2029, the scheme was fast-tracked after Labour’s welfare cuts U-turn. Yet DWP said the rollout lacks direction. “There’s no properly considered plan,” one official said. Another admitted, “Only a handful of people are working on this.”
Despite the criticism, the DWP defended its approach. A spokesperson said the department took “decisive action” to boost employment. However, sources say recruitment for job coaches lags behind, and private contractors struggle to meet deadlines.
The government aims to cut welfare costs by getting more people into work. Yet officials doubt the plan’s effectiveness. “These are notoriously hard-to-reach jobseekers,” one insider explained. Many have long-term health issues or lack recent work experience.
In Cumbria, over half of universal credit claimants face no work requirements due to health problems. Mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression, now dominate disability claims. Colin Cox of Cumberland Council warned some issues are over-medicalized, requiring solutions beyond medication.
Even with support, finding work remains tough. In coastal Cumbria towns, most vacancies are in care a sector with high burnout rates. Poor transport in rural areas further limits opportunities.
Charities like GoodLives help bridge the gap. “Confidence is key,” said CEO Karen Jones. Her team mentors jobseekers for six months post-hire. Kerry Ritson, a beneficiary, credits the charity for rebuilding her self-esteem after years of isolation.
The DWP work support scheme in disarray also risks blowing a hole in budgets. Initial welfare cuts aimed to save £5bn yearly, but concessions halved that target. With tax hikes likely, Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces pressure to meet fiscal rules.
Meanwhile, critics argue the rushed plan exposes deeper dysfunction. “There’s no passion behind this rollout,” a DWP source admitted. As doubts grow, the government must now prove its jobs plan isn’t just another broken promise.
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