Jobseekers could lose benefits if they reject the offer of further training

New plans have been unveiled to combat people on jobseekers allowance who do not actively seek for employment.

Benefit claimants who decline the opportunity to attend a training course to help them become more employable could have their benefits stopped.

Under new proposals unveiled by Employment Minister Chris Grayling and Skills Minister John Hayes, people who receive benefits whilst actively looking, or preparing, for work could be required to undertake a training course.

The extra tuition will help improve employability as part of their journey back to work.

Mr Grayling said: “We will support people but they have to do their bit too, if they are offered a training course to improve their employability they will be expected to attend.”

Ministers are eager for those looking for work to get the best possible support and improving their skills is one of the key ways to prepare for and gain work.

“This is an important change, and one which we hope will result in improved participation and completion rates in skills training programmes to get more people into jobs”, said Mr Hayes.

Ministers are urging any organisation or individual with an interest in skills support for unemployed people to respond to the consultation.

“We want to work with colleges and training providers to make this process as streamlined as possible. I would welcome the sector’s views on how best to implement these changes”, said Mr Hayes.

Discussions on the best way to implement these changes will end on 3 February 2011.

Christopher Thompson