Jobcentre Plus

DWP has conducted a number of evaluations that looked at the effectiveness of employment support programmes. This includes:

Qualitative research (2021–2023) on the effectiveness of Work Search Review (WSR) meetings delivered through Jobcentres - a core way of how Jobcentres and customers interact to discuss finding work: What makes work search reviews effective? - GOV.UK. The findings show that effectiveness depends on good rapport and a tailored approach from work coaches, reflecting each customer’s barriers, skills, motivation and aspirations. Effective meetings balance encouragement with appropriate challenge to customers’ beliefs about what they can achieve. Work Search Reviews are more effective when work coaches have sufficient time to prepare and carry out the meetings and flexibility to tailor the frequency and format, supporting better engagement and outcomes.

A quantitative impact assessment of Sector-based Work Academy Programmes: Sector-based Work Academy Programme: A Quantitative Impact Assessment - GOV.UK. This showed that starting a SWAP increases the time 20 to 65-year-old Universal Credit customers spend in employment.

An evaluation of the Youth Offer in 2024: Youth Offer process evaluation - GOV.UK, with a full process evaluation of the Jobs Guarantee planned.

In Great Britain, Jobcentres can also signpost or refer customers to a range of employment support programmes, many of which are delivered by externally contracted providers or Mayors and Local Authorities. This includes programmes introduced under this government such as Connect to Work and Workwell, which will be evaluated appropriately.

In Northern Ireland, employment support is delivered through Jobs and Benefits Offices. Programmes are evaluated separately to those in Great Britain.