Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent assessment he has made of the availability of Jobcentre Plus services for people who are in work and seeking (a) alternative employment and (b) career progression.

As set out in the Get Britain Working White Paper, the Government is committed to building an inclusive and thriving labour market where everyone has the opportunity of good work, and the chance to get on in work.

Mandatory work coach support is available for UC claimants in employment with low earnings. UC claimants with employed earnings receive tailored support with their work coach every 8 weeks, which reflects their situation as employees. The work coach will support claimants with either career progression in their current employment or through taking steps to change careers to alternative employment with better prospects of long-term progression. For some claimants (England only), a work coach may also refer to a National Careers Adviser for more in-depth discussions about career information, advice, or guidance. For claimants with higher earnings, they may also seek work coach support on a voluntary basis.

The Jobs and Careers Service will support individuals including people in employment and not claiming benefits to make informed choices about their careers including helping them to boost their skills as well as helping them move into higher paid, higher quality and more productive work.