Unemployed residents flocking to new programme as impact of pandemic bites

A new programme which was launched to support people who have lost their jobs during the pandemic has received three times the number of referrals expected in its first month.

The Local London Work and Health Programme Job Entry: Targeted Support (JETS) service offers rapid help to thousands of people across nine Local London boroughs, supporting them to learn new skills, build their CV, engage with local employers and find a job.

Latest figures show that just under 1,500 people were referred to the programme from Job Centre Plus and more than 250 have started since its launch in mid-October. The high level of referrals is further evidence of the damaging impact that COVID-19 has had on East London.

The programme is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions and delivered on behalf of Local London by Maximus UK, our Work and Health Programme provider. Maximus UK are working with hundreds of employers in our boroughs to give them access to skilled local candidates.

In line with Government guidance and restrictions in place across London, the service is largely delivered remotely via online video, phone and email.

For more information on the JETS, visit the programme website.