Contractors to deliver Pathways from today.

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The contractors appointed by Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Peter Hain to deliver Pathways to Work in 15 Jobcentre Plus districts across Great Britain will open for business today.

Peter Hain announced the successful Phase 1 contractors from the private and voluntary sector on 12 September 2007.

The six companies awarded the contracts under Phase 1 of Provider led Pathways are A4E; Seetec Ltd; Shaw Trust; TNG Ltd; Triage Central Ltd ; and WorkDirections Ltd. These six primary contractors will deliver the service with the help of a large number of specialist contractors, including over 160 voluntary organisations and charities.

Caroline Flint, Minister for Employment and Welfare Reform, said: “ From today hundreds more disabled people and those with health conditions will get the support they need to find work as Pathways to Work gets underway in 15 more regions across Great Britain. Our partnerships with the private and voluntary sector will continue to play an important role in our welfare plans, as contractors work alongside local Jobcentre Plus partners, to help us achieve our goal of full employment and opportunity for all.”

“Today we are also launching a consultation aimed at helping more disabled people into work by improving the specialist employment support available through providing a more flexible and personal service.”

A second, and final, phase of Pathways contracts will be announced later this month. These will commence in April, ensuring that anyone on incapacity benefits will have access to a local Pathways service by April next year.

Previous articles on Pathways to Work:-

Peter Hain announces Pathways training providers

A4e Delivering Pathways to Work

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