The UK Government has revealed that 17 new Work Coaches have been added to the team at Galashiels Jobcentre.
It is part of a UK wide policy to double the number of Work Coaches across the country to 27,000 by the end of March 2021. This is to help those who have lost their job due to the pandemic get back into work.
Work Coaches are also helping to deliver the flagship £2 billion Kickstart scheme which helps out of work young people get a paid 6-month training role. Scottish Borders Council is already taking on 30 young people as part of the scheme.
Work Coaches also offer vital retraining opportunities to people looking to start a new career, as well as support for those who need to update their skills and CV, or simply prepare for an interview.
The increase in the number of staff at New Reiver House in Galashiels was revealed to Borders MP, John Lamont, in a Written Question to the Department for Work and Pensions in the House of Commons.
The Employment Minister, Mims Davies MP, also said that the Galashiels Jobcentre team are working with Scottish Borders College and partnering with local employers to help better serve unemployed Borderers.
John Lamont MP said:
“It is a sad reality that the Covid-19 pandemic has led to job losses despite the unprecedented packages put in place to stop them, such as the furlough scheme.
“That’s why it is important that we are helping people get back into work. With 17 new Work Coaches now based in Galashiels and serving the Scottish Borders, people will have the tools and resources available for them to return to the workforce even quicker.
“Young people have been particularly hard hit by Covid due to their tendency to work in the tourism, retail and hospitality sectors which have been shut for much of the last year.
“I welcome the Kickstart scheme which is particularly focused on improving employability amongst the younger generation.”
Minister for Employment, Mims Davies MP said:
“Getting Britain back into work is key to our national recovery and our DWP Work Coaches are on the frontline of this effort – boosting their numbers means we can build back stronger.
“Our Work Coaches not only deliver financial support to millions of claimants across the country, but take time to listen, encourage, advise, and ensure everyone has access to the best support available – helping those facing a tough time get back on their feet sooner.”
