New digital surgeries launched to help Falkirk folk back into work

The new digital job surgeries, which will help job seekers build their interview skills and point them in the right direction for job vacancies,will run alongside existing support available in job centres.

A new team of 325 job search advisers are now available online or over the phone to support those recently unemployed who already have the skills and experience needed to move into a new career, but might not be sure where to start.

Over the next 12 months, an expected 160,000 job seekers will receive digital support and advice as part of a new Job Finding Support (JFS) service in a further boost to the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs.

The quick-fire support, which takes place across four one-to-one sessions and aims to be completed in a matter of weeks, offers mock interviews, help to identify transferable skills and advice on how to switch industries, as well as online group sessions to improve job search techniques.

Therese Coffey, secretary of state for work and pensions, said: “Job Finding Support will help job seekers brush up on interview skills and advice, giving them a helping hand to move back into work quickly.

“Our Plan for Jobs is helping us build back better and fairer, getting job support to people who need it right across Britain and levelling up opportunity.”

The service is completely voluntary to all job seekers who have been unemployed for less than 13 weeks and are claiming benefits. Participants are referred to the scheme through their work coach.

As the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) drives forward the Plan for Jobs, it has supported over 40,000 people to retrain and up skill on the sector-based Work Academy Programme and recruited 8500 new work coaches to spearhead efforts to get the country working again.

JFS will complement the role of work coaches, who provide more intensive support for job seekers, including anyone facing specific difficulties returning to work.

The new service will also free up front line staff as they continue to help people access the financial support they need.