Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent assessment her Department has made of (a) how widespread social exclusion is in rural areas and (b) the effect of her Department’s policies on social exclusion in rural areas.

Through the evidence gathered in the 2017-18 Community Life Survey in England, indicators linked to social exclusion do not show a significant difference between urban and rural areas. Adults living in rural areas are less likely to say that they feel they often/always feel lonely than people living in urban areas (3% compared with 6%). In addition, adults living in rural areas are more likely to say they feel they belong to their immediate neighbourhood (68%) than those living in urban areas (61%).

The cross-government team on tackling loneliness are working with colleagues in the Devolved Administrations to ensure our work is complementary and to share insights and learn from one another.

In its response to a House of Lords’ report on the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act in May 2018, the government reiterated its commitment to rural proofing all policies from the earliest stages so that they take account of the needs and circumstances of rural areas. Defra supports this through the provision of guidance and statistical information.

DWP undertakes analytical research through a range of trials and proof of concept, which considers claimants in rural and urban settings. To ensure DWP services are relevant to the needs of the individual and locality, JCP staff monitor local developments, with a focus on overcoming barriers to gain employment. Where there is a perceived gap, the Flexible Support Fund can be used to provide additional financial support.

In delivering a personalised service, claimant needs are taken into account when arranging any attendance. Work coaches personalise the support they provide for each claimant based on individual need and circumstance, including the offer of home visits or postal signing where appropriate.