Vulnerable People Support into Work 2024-10-07

2024-10-07

TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Meg Hillier Lab Co-op
Hackney South and Shoreditch
Context
The MP expressed concerns about the barriers faced by individuals with fluctuating conditions, particularly mental health issues, in accessing employment support. She highlighted a local jobcentre's effective teamwork but noted significant challenges.
I am concerned about the barriers faced by individuals with fluctuating conditions, particularly those with mental health issues, both for them and prospective employers. Can you give us an idea of what might be included in the White Paper regarding support for employers to hire such candidates?
We are committed to supporting vulnerable customers into work through tailored initiatives at jobcentres and partnerships with NHS talking therapies. More will be outlined in the 'Getting Britain Working' White Paper, but currently we offer tailored support for individuals with mental health conditions.
Assessment & feedback
The response did not provide specific details on employer support that was asked for.
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Meg Hillier Lab Co-op
Hackney South and Shoreditch
Context
The MP praised a local jobcentre's efforts but noted significant barriers for people with fluctuating conditions, especially mental health issues. She questioned the government's plans to support employers.
In my constituency, there is an excellent jobcentre team supporting constituents overcome benefits and employment hurdles. However, those with fluctuating conditions like mental health face major obstacles both personally and from prospective employers. Can you give us an idea of what might be in the White Paper regarding employer support for such individuals?
I welcome my hon. Friend's report and agree there is a major challenge with increased inactivity due to fluctuating conditions, particularly mental health issues. We are already providing tailored support through NHS talking therapies and primary care partnerships, but more will be outlined in the 'Getting Britain Working' White Paper.
Assessment & feedback
The response did not provide specific details on employer support that was asked for.
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Josh Babarinde Lib Dem
Eastbourne
Context
The MP expressed concerns about the Conservative-run East Sussex county council's plans to close the Steps to Work programme and Linden Court, which supports people with learning disabilities in employment.
Conservative-run East Sussex county council is threatening to close the Steps to Work programme and Linden Court, essential services for individuals with learning disabilities. Will you urge the council to halt these plans or consider selling off buildings instead of closing critical support services?
I welcome my hon. Friend's positive report on the work at his local jobcentre, but I agree that there is a need for more support for people with learning disabilities in employment rather than less. If he sends me the details of his concerns, I will look into them further.
Assessment & feedback
The MP asked about specific actions to stop the closure plans or find alternative funding sources, but no direct commitment was given.
Looking Into It
Response accuracy
Q4 Partial Answer
Mims Davies Con
East Grinstead and Uckfield
Context
The MP referenced the Buckland review focusing on improving employment opportunities for autistic individuals by addressing outdated recruitment practices.
The Buckland review highlighted the need to improve employment opportunities and address outdated hiring practices for autistic people. How will you use this review to drive real change through Access to Work and other DWP interventions?
I thank the hon. Lady for her welcome and look forward to a meeting with Sir Robert later this month, where we will discuss these matters.
Assessment & feedback
The MP asked about using the Buckland review for real change but received only a statement about future meetings without concrete plans.
Future Meetings
Response accuracy
Q5 Partial Answer
Mims Davies Con
East Grinstead and Uckfield
Context
The MP inquired about the overdue disability action plan update, questioning if the government would commit to hosting the 2031 Special Olympics as previous Conservative governments did.
The disability action plan mid-year update is overdue. When will there be an update? Also, will your Government commit like previous ones did to hosting the 2031 Special Olympics?
We will provide more information in the 'Getting Britain Working' White Paper. If the hon. Lady would like to discuss the Special Olympics further, I am happy to look into it.
Assessment & feedback
The MP asked for a specific timeline and commitment but received only vague responses about future discussions.
Future White Paper Further Discussion
Response accuracy