Social Firms UK

This consultation set out the Government’s plans increase the numbers of people getting work. By 2013, people will either be on Job Seekers Allowance (JSA), or the Employment Support Allowance (ESA). Emphasis will be on what people can do and, where relevant, this will be tested by a new medical assessment. People with severe disabilities will get more cash under ESA.  Others who qualify for the benefit will be placed in a “work” category and will receive personalised back-to-work support to help them prepare for work and overcome any barriers they face. It will be made clear to this group that ESA is a temporary situation to help them get fit to return to work.  The proposals also include streamlining the benefit system, moving lone parents with children under seven on to JSA and offering more support to prepare them for work.

In July 2008 the Government commissioned Prof Paul Gregg to review what role sanctions can and should play in motivating people to take advantage of back-to-work support.  In its position paper on sanctions, Social Firms UK argues that there are a range of factors that can impact on whether a person at disadvantage in the labour market can get work. All relevant factors should be taken into account before applying sanctions.