New career progression initiative launches to boost earnings of workers claiming Universal Credit

THOUSANDS of workers receiving Universal Credit will now be offered new specialist support from their jobcentres to help them progress at work.

Eligible claimants in Warrington, Macclesfield, Congleton, Crewe, Northwich, Winsford, Neston, Chester and Ellesmere Port will soon be contacted by a specialist progression work coach, who will offer them tailored help to take their earnings to the next level – in or outside of their current sector.
Those who take up the offer will be supported with a personalised work plan, devised with the help of a specialist. The plan will help to address any obstacles that might be stopping them from earning more in a job.

Through regular, flexible appointments, specialist In-Work Progression work coaches will offer advice on childcare support, transport, identifying transferable skills to switch sectors, job-searching, disability support, and upskilling opportunities through government-funded training like Skills Bootcamps.
This time, jobcentres will also be offering video appointments in addition to phone calls and face to face help, allowing people more flexible, personal face time with progression work coaches – starting in Macclesfield and Ellesmere Port.

DWP Minister Julie Marson MP said:  “Our new In-Work Progression initiative will offer thousands of working people the chance to unlock higher-paid opportunities in our thriving jobs market.
Job progression can give not only a boost to people’s pay packets, but also a sense of fulfilment and accomplishment in overcoming barriers.
I urge anyone who is contacted about this support to take advantage and see what difference it could make. We want to invest in people just as employers are keen to develop talent and through this progression support, you might discover a new role that not only fits around your personal needs, but also increases your salary.”

While helping those out of work into work remains a key focus, with unemployment at a near record low progression is a priority. This extended support will focus on breaking down barriers which have traditionally stopped people from progressing and earning more in work – like childcare responsibilities or a need for higher qualifications.
A newly appointed Progression Champion will also boost job progression prospects for benefit claimants in the area. Working with local employers and colleges, they will expand promotional and upskilling opportunities in Cheshire.

The jobs market in the North West is showing positive signs of recovery, with the latest labour market results revealing unemployment is down 0.5% on the year. With a recovering jobs market, the DWP is shifting its focus to ensuring people capitalise on the opportunities available to boost their pay packets.
Major employers in Cheshire already working with DWP’s jobcentres for recruitment support include Marks and Spencer, Homebase, the Two Sisters Food Group, Bentley Motors and Teaching Executives.

If you are working and receiving Universal Credit and would like to find out more about accessing this support, please contact your local jobcentre via your UC journal.