By LIZ KENDALL, Work and Pensions Secretary
EVERY Sun reader will know someone who’s tried to take their first step into a new career – only to be told that they don’t have the experience they need.
Up and down the country, there are people brimming with talent but struggling to get a foot in the door, to prove themselves and get that all important first break on the career ladder.
In the last year, more than 86,000 places have been offered on our Sector Based Work Academy Programme – or SWAPs – providing training, hands-on experience, and the guarantee of an interview. Every one of the places means the chance for someone to get on in life, make the most of their talents, and explore new opportunities.
Take Andrew, who took part in the SWAP programme after being unemployed for four years. He had previous experience in retail, but his low confidence after years out of work was holding him back.
The SWAP programme rebuilt Andrew’s confidence. After taking part in a taster day, work placement and gaining relevant qualifications, he is now a qualified retail floor manager with a permanent job, putting more money is his pockets.
That is the life-changing difference the right support can make.
So, this year, we’re going even further – with 100,000 SWAP places up for grabs.
We know this scheme works. Our research shows that in the two years after finishing a SWAP, people stay in their jobs up to three months longer on average, earn up to £1400 more a year, and save the taxpayer over £350 on the benefits they would otherwise be claiming.
And it’s also undoubtedly better for businesses, especially those crying out for staff in sectors such as hospitality and construction.
My ambition as Work and Pensions Secretary is to achieve an 80% employment rate in support of this government’s growth mission. SWAPs are the perfect step to achieving this as we put more money in people’s pockets and improve living standards across the UK, delivering on our Plan for Change.
So, to anybody on Universal Credit, Jobseekers Allowance or Employment Support Allowance who fancies a fresh start, speak to our work coaches about SWAPs. And if you’re running a business, get involved and hire your next star employee.
