READING’S MPs have welcomed investment to help more people into good jobs, as the government announces a scheme to deliver localised, tailored support to people who are sick, disabled or face complex barriers to work.
Almost 2350 sick or disabled people in Berkshire will receive employment support, thanks to £9.5m in funding from Labour’s Connect to Work programme.
It will lead to the provision of intensive, personalised help including individual coaching from employment specialists, job matching services, and ongoing support for both participants and employers to ensure sustainable employment outcomes.
Berkshire is one of nine areas across England which will see a share of £167m in investment, which is part of a wider £1bn investment aimed at “unlocking potential” by breaking down barriers to work.
Support can include embedding work advisers in GP surgeries, putting on workshops to improve people’s confidence, or helping people with affordable childcare.
Olivia Bailey MP said: “Reading West and Mid Berkshire is a great place to live and work, but far too many of my constituents who want to work face barriers when looking for a job. This Labour Government is going to change that, and this funding will transform the lives of many local people by providing them with the tailored support they need. We’re delivering on our promise to help people in areas like Reading West and Mid Berkshire secure good jobs, so that our communities and local economy thrive.”
Yuan Yang MP said: “Since the pandemic our economy has struggled with high levels of inactivity, and I’m very glad to welcome this Labour government’s Connect to Work programme, which will help remove so many of the barriers to work that prevent people achieving their potential.”
Matt Rodda MP said: “This important initiative will help more local people get back into work and benefit from the economic growth of the Reading area. The initiative should also help local business who are looking for staff.”
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: “Writing off people with long-term health conditions or disabilities fails them and fails our economy. We are giving people a hand up, not a handout, realising their potential and providing them with the skills to succeed as part of our Plan for Change. Thanks to local areas hitting the ground running, it is already delivering results – proving that when we invest in people and communities, everyone wins.”
