Yahoo Finance Government expected to announce doubling of job centre staff amid coronavirus pandemic
Rishi Sunak is expected to announce a huge increase in job centre staff as the Government attempts to help those who have lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Chancellor is due to say the number of work coaches will double from 13,500 to 27,000 on Wednesday.
Mr Sunak will outline new policies aimed at dealing with Britain's recovery from the Covid-19 crisis.
It comes after predictions of a major recession and reports the GPD has taken a severe hit during the nationwide lockdown.
The move to double the number of work coaches could cost around £800,000 as the Treasury insists the “expert mentors” have a “proven” record to help jobseekers and benefit claimants into work quicker.
A Treasury spokesperson said: “The longer someone is out of work, the harder it is to return.
"Doubling the number of work coaches will ensure those in need are given immediate support to get back on their feet and into a job.
“Work coaches will use their expert advice to support claimants to make the most of their skills and put them in the best possible position to reconnect with the local labour market.
“Evidence shows that high-quality, work-focused, one-to-one adviser support, significantly reduces jobseekers’ barriers to work.”
As lockdown restrictions are eased further job centres are set to hold more face-to-face meetings with people seeking work from Monday.
As part of the first wave of the nationwide recruitment drive, an extra 4,500 coaches will be in position by October, with more to follow later in the year.
The Government has set up a team of senior policy advisers from the Treasury and the Department for Work and Pensions to oversee the Government’s plans to support jobs.
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