Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what plans her Department has to replace the provision provided to people over 50 seeking employment by the European Social Fund.

The Government recognises the challenges faced by some aged 50 and over, which is why we are providing a new enhanced offer for people aged 50 and over to remain in and return to work.

Eligible older job seekers on Universal Credit will receive more intensive, tailored support during the first nine months of their claim, on top of the support that work coaches offer all claimants on skills provision and job search support.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund, (UKSPF) will act as the successor to the European Social Fund and the European Regional Development Fund. The fund is being led by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and aims to build pride in place and increase life chances across the United Kingdom.

Places have been empowered to identify and build on their own strengths and needs at a local level through three investment priorities: communities and place, local businesses and people and skills.

Local areas have been asked to consider local need and consider which cohorts they will support – including people aged over 50 – when developing local investment plans.

The Government is currently assessing local investment plans, with first payments due to UKSPF lead local authorities later in 2022.