Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent discussions he has had with third-sector organisations on the closure of Easterhouse Jobcentre.

We are committed to retaining an accessible jobcentre network and continuing to serve customers in all areas of the country, including Glasgow.

As part of that commitment we are working with partner organisations throughout Glasgow, collaborating with them to ensure individuals have access to the widest range of support during periods of unemployment. This is in addition to the core services available via the local jobcentre.

We are already working closely with Glasgow City Council and a significant amount of work to increase support for homeless customers has been on going over the past year with City Mission and Simon Community. We are also working with Glasgow Community Planning and Skills Development Scotland to explore outreach opportunities and closer working.

There are also plans in place to host local stakeholder/partnership meetings where third sector and other employability and support organisations will be invited to attend. This will give another opportunity to explore additional opportunities.

In addition, all jobcentres in the East End of Glasgow currently engage with Citizens Advice, Connect, Legacy Hub and Greater Easterhouse Supporting Hands.