Thousands of Jobseekers to Benefit from Expanded Fast-Track Work Scheme
In a significant push to reduce unemployment, the UK government is expanding its Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) to benefit over 100,000 jobseekers across seaside towns such as Blackpool and Scarborough. This initiative aims to equip unemployed individuals with essential skills to secure jobs in industries facing acute labor shortages, particularly in hospitality and retail.
Employment Minister Alison McGovern has called on businesses to support the program, emphasizing that SWAPs will be a “game-changer” for areas grappling with high unemployment rates.
Government’s Commitment to Tackling Unemployment
The SWAPs initiative, which includes work-ready training, placements, and guaranteed job interviews, is set to increase by more than 25% in 2025. This expansion aligns with the government’s broader effort to “Get Britain Working” as part of its Plan for Change.
Minister McGovern highlighted the success of the program, stating:
“The evidence is clear – SWAPs boost earnings and keep people in jobs for longer. That’s why we are delivering more of them than ever.”
Hospitality and Retail Industries to Benefit
With 88,000 unfilled roles in the hospitality sector, the government has identified this industry as a critical area for intervention. A hospitality training pilot will be extended to 26 new locations, including 13 coastal towns, ensuring that jobseekers receive the necessary training to meet industry demands.
Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, welcomed the expansion, calling the SWAPs pilot a brilliant way to provide high-quality, entry-level training. She added:
“This announcement gives us the impetus to expand our work across the country, help more people find rewarding jobs in hospitality, and tackle economic inactivity.”
How Can Jobseekers Enroll?
Individuals receiving Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Employment and Support Allowance can sign up for SWAPs through their local Jobcentre. Meanwhile, businesses looking to fill vacancies can partner with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to develop tailored training programs.
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What Are Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs)?
SWAPs are government-backed training schemes designed to help unemployed individuals gain sector-specific skills and secure long-term employment. The three main components include:
- Pre-employment training – learning job-specific skills
- Work experience placements – gaining hands-on experience
- Guaranteed job interviews – increasing employment opportunities
Growing Concerns Over Economic Inactivity
The expansion of SWAPs comes as nearly 2.8 million people remain out of work due to ill health, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This marks an increase of almost 700,000 since before the COVID-19 lockdown. The government’s move to address this issue is crucial as the cost of supporting people with disabilities and long-term health conditions is projected to surpass £100 billion by 2030.
FAQs
1. What is the main goal of the SWAPs expansion?
The expansion aims to reduce unemployment in seaside towns by providing jobseekers with industry-specific training, work experience, and guaranteed interviews.
2. Who is eligible to apply for SWAPs?
Anyone receiving Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Employment and Support Allowance can participate.
3. How does SWAPs benefit jobseekers?
Research indicates that participants earn up to £1,400 more over two years and stay employed for an average of three months longer than non-participants.
4. What businesses can join SWAPs?
Industries facing labor shortages, such as hospitality, retail, and care, are encouraged to partner with the DWP to create customized training programs.
5. Where can I find more details on SWAPs?
For more information, visit:
