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GETTING BACK TO WORK /BENEFITS
This section provides links to agencies for
a variety of your clients:
Source: DWP http://www.dwp.gov.uk/
For your clients who are not working or
working less than 16 hours a week: check
Jobseeker's Allowance – (this
will take you to the JobCentre Plus website)
If your client is a lone parent and wants
to move off benefit into work or just wants
help finding work: check
New Deal for Lone Parents (this will
now take you to the New Deal pages of the
JobCentre Plus website)
If your client is aged 50 or over and
looking for work: check
New Deal for people aged 50 plus (this
will now take you to the New Deal pages
of the JobCentre Plus website)
If your client is aged 25 or over and
needs help looking for work: check
New Deal for people aged 25 plus (this
will now take you to the New Deal pages
of the JobCentre Plus website)
If your client is aged 18 or over but
under 25 and needs help looking for work: check
New Deal for Young People (this will
now take you to the New Deal pages of the
JobCentre Plus website)
If your client currently gets a disability
or health-related benefit: check
New Deal for Disabled People (this
will now take you to the New Deal pages
of the JobCentre Plus website)
If your client is an aspiring unemployed
musician: check
New Deal for Musicians (this will now
take you to the New Deal pages of the JobCentre
Plus website)
Minimum Wage to Rise in October
The Low Pay Commission (LPC) has announced that the adult minimum wage will increase to £5.73 from October 2008 (a 3.8% rise). The TUC has welcomed the rise. Brendan Barber, General Secretary of the TUC said:
“We welcome this increase in the minimum wage, which will benefit more than a million low paid workers. Everybody stands to gain from making the minimum wage as robust as possible. We support the improvements to the enforcement regime that are currently going through parliament, and look forward to the introduction of tougher penalties for cheating employers and fair arrears for underpaid workers later in the year.”
Source: www.tuc.org,uk, 5th March 2008
Getting NEETS into Work
18 year olds who have not been in work, education or training for at least 26 weeks before their 18th birthday will be moved onto an intensive support and sanctions regime led by Jobcentre Plus, from next April. Their benefits will only continue if they can prove that they are actively looking for work and are engaged in work-related activity. If they do not find work within 6 months, then a specialist provider from the private or voluntary sector will ensure that each individual does a minimum of four weeks full-time work-related activity – otherwise the young person will lose their benefit. The work-related activity may be community work, a work placement or work experience.
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, James Purnell said: "The message that I want to give to young people is that they are expected to work for their money. Many young people have never experienced the world of work and this often works against them when looking for employment. We want to break down the barriers that young people face. Everyone has a talent, something to offer their community, by making work part of the deal for getting their benefits we can help them to realise their potential."
Source: GNN, 18th February 2008
182,000 More Construction Jobs for Olympics
Around 182,000 more construction workers will need to be found to complete the transport, infrastructure and sports facilities required for the 2012 Olympics, say the Construction Skills Network. Amongst other skilled trades, they have identified a need for 15,000 more plumbers and 13,000 more bricklayers by 2012.
For the Games, the Construction Industry will need 2.8m workers, with a rise of 8.4% forecast as being needed in Greater London. Projected workforce requirements include, 122,000 bricklayers, 161,000 painters, 211,000 electricians and 189,000 plumbers. Overall there is a £9.3bn budget for construction, transport and regeneration. These estimates do not include the requirement for extra workers on the Crossrail project which is also expected before the Olympics.
Source: BBC Online, 26th February 2008
Pathways to Work Goes Nationwide
Pathways to Work will be rolled out to the remaining 16 Jobcentre Plus districts from April 2008. The scheme aims to help people on incapacity benefits to move into employment. The programme provides specialist help by the public, private and voluntary sectors for the long-term unemployed to get back to work, including rehabilitation support, one-to-one interviews, a Return to Work Credit of £40 per week and assistance once in work. So far the scheme has helped 69,000 people into work.
The contractors appointed to deliver Phase 2 Pathways to Work in the South East region are: Instant Muscle Enterprise Ltd in Surrey and Sussex; Royal British Legion Industries in Surrey, Sussex and Kent; The Shaw Trust in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire and Hampshire & Isle of Wight.
Source: DWP website, 20th December 2007
New Deal Ten Years Old This Year
2008 marks the tenth anniversary of the New Deal job seeking programme that helps to move people off benefits and back into work. Figures published recently by the Department of Work and Pensions show that more than 1.8 million people nationwide have found work through the new deal programme over the last decade, which is equivalent to one person every three minutes every day. In the South East, nearly 144,000 people have found a job through new deal. Other figures published by the DWP show that the long term rate of employment for both youths and adults has fallen by nearly 75% over the past decade and the employment rate of lone parents has risen by 12.5%. The government is spending £5 billion less a year on unemployment than in 1997 and claimant unemployment figures are the lowest they’ve been for thirty years. The new deal has contributed to all of these successful outcomes.
Source: GNN, 2nd Jan 2008
Private and Voluntary Sector Given Greater Role in Tackling Worklessness
In a radical shake-up to the way support is provided to those who experience the most disadvantage in getting work, Work and Pensions Secretary Peter Hain has announced that private and voluntary sector organisations will be paid to get the long-term unemployed into sustainable jobs. The emphasis is now not just getting a person into work, but ensuring that they keep work. To achieve this there will be longer and larger welfare-to-work contracts with a smaller number of lead contractors.
In addition, the Government has announced the following:
More accountability from contractors – contracts can be terminated or adjusted at a number of points if performance is not good enough
Increased competition for contracts
A large role for smaller providers who provide high quality performance.
The changes relate to recommendations made by David Freud in March and in the DWP's proposals in the 'In Work, Better Off' green paper in July.
Source: GNN, 27th November 2007
Increased Numbers of Employment Advisers to Support GP Surgeries
The Government is piloting a new advice service for smaller businesses and will treble the number of Jobcentre Plus employment advisers in GP surgeries to support people suffering from mental health or stress issues into work. The measures are part of the first national strategy relating to mental health and work, which will be overseen by a group of medical, academic, business and stakeholder representatives and chaired by the National Director for Health and Work, Dame Carol Black.
Other elements of the scheme include:
Wherever possible, the Pathways to Work and Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programmes will be linked up as they are rolled out across the country.
A mental health forum will be set up to bring together those delivering Pathways to Work support, to share good practice.
Changes to the way medical certificates are issues, focussing on capacity rather than incapacity.
Source: GNN, 27th November 2007
Jobcentre Plus and Citizens Advice Bureaux Form New Partnership
A new partnership agreement has been set up between Citizens Advice and Jobcentre Plus to improve advice and support for people in England and Wales. There will be improved co-operation locally and nationally. Jobcentre Plus and CAB have many clients in common. Jobcentre Plus helps around 850,000 people into work annually and pays benefits to 6.5 million people. CAB advises more than 2 million people each year about employment, tax credits and benefits.
The partnership agreement will be finalised by the end of the year to include arrangements for communication, meetings and information sharing. A similar partnership agreement is also being implemented in Scotland.
Source: GNN, 27th September 2007
Launch of Employability Skills Programme
A joint initiative has been launched by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS), Jobcentre Plus and the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) to help people back into work. The Employability Skills Programme aims to give low-skilled unemployed people access to flexible training. The programme will help improve people’s skills to find a job and to progress at work, which will improve their life chances. In turn this will contribute to a reduction in child poverty and increase social mobility. The programme has been developed to meet the needs of Jobcentre Plus customers, and can lead to an Employability Award.
Source: GNN, 1st August 2007
0800 Number Launched By Jobcentre
Plus
In May, Jobcentre Plus launched a new free 0800
telephone service to speed up the process of benefit
claims and offer advice about getting back to work.
The new numbers are:
Lines are open from 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday.
Customers using mobile phones may be charged, but
the contact centre will call the customer back
if requested. Face to face help with completing
claims forms will still be available at Jobcentre
Plus offices if required. For further information
on the services that Jobcentre Plus provides employers
and people of working age visit http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk
Source: GNN, 29th May 2007
Job Search Engine Launched on Digital TV
The new Looking Local job search engine will
enable digital TV viewers to see thousands
of job vacancies in the comfort of their own
homes.
Working in partnership, Jobcentre Plus (JCP) and Looking Local, the
local
government digital portal, will allow viewers to search by postcode
to find vacancies in their vicinity.
Each job advertisement on Looking Local comes
with a full job description and details of location,
wages, benefits and how to apply. The service is
available to anyone that has access to Sky, cable
or broadband-enabled Freeview boxes.
Source: GNN, 2nd April 2007
ESA Claimants Can Work and Still Receive Benefits
New rules governing work and benefits mean that
jobseekers on the income-related element of the
new Employment Support Allowance (ESA) can earn
up to £86 per week for a year, while still
receiving benefits. ESA will replace incapacity
benefit and income support paid for incapacity
or disability for new claimants from 2008.
Jim Murphy, Minister
for Employment and Welfare Reform, said: "All
the evidence we have gathered shows that allowing
people to try out part-time
job options provides a gateway into the world of
work, helping them to build up their skills and
confidence and vastly improves the chances they
have of getting off benefit altogether.”
All ESA claimants will
be able to work for fewer than 16 hours and earn
up to £86 per week
for up to 52 weeks without losing their entitlement.
Source: GNN, 20th March 2007
Nextstep
Hampshire & Isle
of Wight
Nextstep Hampshire & Isle of Wight is a partnership
of learning organisations from Hampshire and the
Isle of Wight. The service caters for anyone who
is 20 years or older and looking to improve their
skills, change career or just get advice. For more
information on nextstep Hampshire and Isle of Wight
click
here
EURES – European Employment
Services
EURES is a network that links the Public Employment
Services of all 28 EEA countries (e.g. Jobcentre
Plus). EURES can assist by:
Advising employers how to advertise their
vacancies EURES-wide or in particular countries
Finding out from the EURES network where
there are skill surpluses to match their requirements
Setting up projects with other countries
to recruit specialist staff
Taking employers or their vacancies to jobsfairs
in Europe or targeting specialist open days
in Europe
This is particularly useful
for employers who have major skills shortage areas
such as engineering,
linguistic vacancies, scientific/pharmaceutical,
health professionals etc.
The EURES website http://www.eures-jobs.com also
allows UK employers to access thousands of CVs
from potential jobseekers (via CV Search) throughout
the EEA countries, thereby increasing their chances
of finding the best possible candidate for their
job. The South East EURES Advisers can be contacted
via the website, but clicking on ’EURES ADVISERS’ button
and using the search mechanism provided.
This section will provide news, information and
links on help and advice for those clients
who wish to go self-employed or start up a business.
Links
In terms of business start up visit http://www.startups.co.uk/ for
a wide range of information and access to free e-bulletins on business
start up.
Click
here for information on grants to individuals
and small and medium sized businesses in order to
research and develop innovative products and processes.
South Hampshire Enterprise Agencies
Business Link Wessex
The Solent Enterprise Hub
The Harbour Economic Development Forum
The University of Portsmouth
Prince’s Trust Grants
Anybody between the age of 18 and 30 wishing to start up their own business can apply for a grant or financial support from the Prince’s Trust. The trust also offers business advice and mentoring as well as a free legal helpline. To find out more, click here to visit their website.
Awards Launched to Celebrate Employers’ Contribution to Local Employment
UK-wide awards have been launched to recognise the good practice of employers, employees and partners in Local Employment Partnerships (LEPs) across the country. More than 400 employers from a variety of sectors have committed to the Government’s initiative to help 250,000 long-term benefit claimants back into work by the end of 2010.
The Local Employment Partnership awards will celebrate good practice by employers that help disadvantaged individuals into work; and the achievements of employees on the scheme. There are six categories of award:
• Employer award for best practice in recruitment
• Employer award for work-life balance
• Employer award for best career progression
• Partnership award for best practice in partnership working
• Individual award for overcoming barriers to employment
• Individual award for outstanding achievement in training
To apply for the Local Employment Partnership Awards, visit http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/up. Applications will be accepted until Friday 2 May 2008. The winners will be announced at an award ceremony at The Oval, Kennington in London on 1 July 2008.
Source: GNN, 31st January 2008
Competition Launched to Find Most Enterprising Place in the South East
For a fourth year, the Enterprising Britain 2008 competition has been launched. Starting on 18th February, the search is on for the most enterprising place in the South East to compete in the national finals. Make Your Mark is running the competition for BERR and in partnership with SEEDA.
The competition aims to find places of excellence in enterprise across the UK that have transformed the economic and social landscape of their area. In this first stage, enterprising places in the South East are being sought to take part in the regional heat, the winner of which then goes through to the UK final. Click here to go through to our website for further details.
Source: SEEDA website, 18th February 2008
2012 Olympic Games Business and Job Opportunities
A business ‘dating agency’ has been setup by the LDA in partnership with London 2012 and London Business Network. The initiative, known as CompeteFor aims to support all sizes of business to bid for opportunities by matching companies with London 2012’s supply needs. There will be an estimated 75,000 opportunities for businesses generated by the Olympics, with £6 billion worth of work to be allocated by London Organising Committee (LOCOG) and the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA). Businesses need to register to be able to apply for contracts, and Competefor will also match firms with local Business Links to offer them support services designed to improve their competitiveness in the long run. A launch event for the service for the South East region was held on 20th February at the Reading Madejski Stadium. Over 400 businesses from the South East attended the event, which was co-hosted by SEEDA and Business Link. Click here to go through to our website for further details.
Source: SEEDA website, London 2012 and LDA websites, various dates
New Business Grants Available through SEEDA
Small and medium sized businesses in parts of Kent, Sussex, Oxfordshire and Hampshire and the Isle of Wight could stand to benefit from new business grant criteria recently announced by the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform. The Changes relate to the Selective Finance for Investment in England grant schemes and will be delivered by SEEDA in the South East. The grants are made available to businesses with expansion plans and who are in need of financial assistance. Due to these changes, small businesses could be eligible for grants of up to £2.5 million and medium sized businesses £1.25 million which is a large increase on the previous £100,000 limit. To find out more, click here to visit SEEDA’s website.
Source: Kent Business, Oct 5th, 2007.
Immigration Support for Businesses
A hotline for employers worried about employing illegal immigrants has been set up by the border and immigration team on call 0845 010 6677
Source: Ilford Recorder, 9th August 2007
£140m
Available in Training Grants
Four-fifths of construction companies in the South
East have not been accessing training grants. Figures
released by ConstructionSkills show that last year,
2,200 construction companies accessed £12m
in grants to train their employees. However, an
estimated 9,000 other companies in the region did
not. From August 2007, £140m in Government
grants will be available to improve the skills
of workers in the construction sector. This includes
grants that cover a several years to ensure a longer-term
approach. Funds for apprenticeships have also risen
significantly in line with the Government’s
aim of having more young people continuing in training
and education until they are 18.
For further information about training grants,
visit http://www.cskills.org/grant
Source: Brighton Argus, 17th July 2007 EcoBiz
EcoBiz is a free group which offers support
and guidance to Isle of Wight businesses about
environmental
management. The group also provides training
workshops and on site reviews of businesses
free of charge to SMEs. To register your business
with EcoBiz and for more information contact:
Lois Prior, Project Officer
39 Quay Street
Newport
Isle of Wight
PO30 5BA
Tel: 01983 527333
E-mail: ecobiz@islandvolunteers.org
Business Link Business Startup
Pilot Rolled Out Across South East
Events about Starting Your Own Business will be
available across the South East region, after the
success of a trial run by Business Link in Berkshire.
Interested individuals can attend up to four three-hour
workshops that run in the mornings, afternoons,
evenings or weekends.
The workshop programme is intended to be flexible,
so that people in employment can attend at times
convenient to themselves. Follow-up support for
those who choose to start their own business will
then be available over the first few years. There
are also courses specifically for women and some
for social enterprises. For further information
about the workshops, call 0845 600 9 006.
Source: icberkshire website, 1st August 2007
Free Trial of Business Recycling
Service
A business which recycles waste from other companies
is offering a month’s free trial of its service.
John Cauchi set up Dove Recycling in 2005 when
he realised there were few services available for
businesses to recycle their waste. He found that
around 80 and 90% of business waste was going to
landfill sites when it could actually be recycled.
The company currently services around 500 businesses
in Surrey, Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Dorset
and West Sussex. Dove Recycling provides companies
with bags and containers to fill with their recyclable
waste. The bags are then collected and recycled.
Paper, confidential waste, cardboard, glass bottles,
drinks cans and mobile phones are all items which
can be collected and recycled. A charge is made
depending on the level of waste that is collected.
For more information visit http://www.doverecycling.co.uk or call 01489 894477.
Source: Woking News and Mail, 7th June 2007
Business Consultancy at Southampton Solent University
Southampton Solent University has opened up a new
business consultancy service to aid the needs
of the regional business community. The Community
and Enterprise Office (CEO) will offer services
such as consultancy, applied research, short
courses, product development and testing and
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs). Businesses
and organisations will be able to access a broad
range of specialist facilities and equipment.
They can also benefit from the knowledge and
experience of academic staff. There are a number
of specialist facilities that can be used such
as a towing tank for yacht engineering, design
and manufacturing workshops, materials testing
laboratories, networking and digital media laboratories
and a broadcasting centre. For more information
on how the university can help with business
needs call 023 8031 9138 or visit www.solent.ac.uk/ceo
Hampshire Economic Partnership
The Hampshire Economic Partnership (HEP) which
was formed in 1992 aims to bring together business
and local government in the region. The Partnership
looks to provide support to the region’s
economic prosperity and provide a voice for local
businesses. Recently HEP has been working with
the University of Portsmouth, University of Southampton,
Southampton Institute and the University of Winchester
in order to create effective linkage between local
businesses and innovative developments within Higher
Education. Further information is available on http://www.hep.uk.com/
Purple Door
Portsmouth University has opened up ‘Purple
Door,’ a one stop shop for businesses in
Hampshire to get help and advice. The University
Building in Southsea offers businesses the help
of academics and facilities in order to resolve
any issues and problems. Businesses can be taken
through the processes of applying for funding,
and students can undertake research on company’s
behalf.
Women’s Business
Ownership
Prowess is a network who supports the growth
of women’s business ownership by raising awareness
and sharing good practice and information. 220
members support 100,000 women to start 10,000
new businesses each year. Further information
is available on http://www.prowess.org.uk/default.asp
PLATO PLATO is a new group that has been created to allow
local business leaders to share their experience
and knowledge and work together to solve problems
and improve profitability. PLATO, is run by Business
Link, and will meet twice a month. Further information
is available on 08454 588558.
Train to Gain
Train to Gain, the Learning and Skills Council’s
programme of skills and productivity development
was rolled out across the country and the region
during August 2006. Kent and Medway and Berkshire
were operational in April.
SME Manufacturers to Receive Free Advice
The Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) will offer
up to four days’ free advice to small and
medium-sized manufacturing companies from April
2008. The service will expand the range of its
advice to include: strategic planning and skills
development; sourcing materials, services and technology;
management and operational advice on all aspects
of company business; improving the performance
and operation of the supply chain; and improved
resource efficiency in both energy and waste.
MAS practitioners have carried out over 18,000 on
site reviews and completed 5,000 consultancy projects
since its inception in 2002.
Source: GNN, 29th March 2007
Mothers Lose Out by Returning Part-time
Research in the February issue of the Economic Journal has found that hourly earnings are 26% lower for women working part-time rather than full-time. Since most women who work part-time do so when they become mothers, women with children pay a high price in terms of pay and career status, among them some of the UK’s most qualified women. 40% of women in work are in part-time jobs, and most of these are women with young children. Nearly half of women who were managers of shops, salons and restaurants before they took a career break return to a lower-skilled job. This is less the case with sectors such as nursing and teaching.
Around 85% of working women without children work full-time in Britain and approximately 90% of all working men are in full-time work, whether they are parents or not.
Other reports in the Economic Journal say that the UK has the widest pay gap for full- and part-time work in Europe and that the pay gap between part-time and full-time work is widening as part-time jobs are mainly in lowly paid occupations.
Source: BBC Online, 27th February 2008
Pensions Act Gives Boost for Women and Carers
Thanks to the Pensions Act 2007, women and carers have received a huge boost. Reforms to the state pension system which have received Royal Assent mean many women on low incomes could receive an extra £50 a week by 2050 from the state pension.
At present to achieve a full Basic State Pension, women and men must contribute 39 and 44 years respectively. However when the new system comes into play from April 2010, this will be lowered to 30 for men and women. By 2046 the Act will have gradually increased the State Pension Age to 68 for men and women. Not only will the Act come as a boost for women and carers, but it will also re-link the Basic State Pension with earnings from 2012, or by the end of the next Parliament, and provides for a simpler flat rate state pension.
Source: GNN, 26th July 2007
SEEDA launches Women's Enterprise website
SEEDA and its partners have launched the Women’s Enterprise website. This supports the aim of releasing the potential of women's enterprise in the South East. As well as making a significant contribution to the competitiveness of the South East, this will transform the lives of individual women, their families and communities particularly in disadvantaged areas.
An online version of SEEDA’s Women's Business Support Directory, updated from 2005), is also available. Follow the link here to view the site http://www.womensenterprisesoutheast.co.uk
MEP Backs Women Inventors’ and Innovators’ Network
The EU Women Inventors’ and Innovators’ Network
(EUWIIN) provides funding and training for women
entrepreneurs in business, science and technology
sectors. The campaign is being backed by Sharon Bowles
the Liberal Democrat MEP for the Island. She is patron
of the new organisation. She said: “We should
inspire women to achieve all their ambitions, whatever
they may be and remove the barriers which stand in
their way. Female innovators are a huge untapped
resource. It is in our own interests to support them.”
Source: www.iwcp.co.uk, 13th April 2007
Gender Equality Duty Comes Into Force
In April 2007, the Gender Equality Duty (GED) comes
into force, constituting the biggest change in
sex equality legislation since the Sex Discrimination
Act in 1975.
The Duty applies to all public authorities, as well
as private and voluntary bodies that are carrying
out public functions on behalf of a public authority.
The organisations will be legally required to:
Eradicate discrimination and harassment that
is unlawful under the Sex Discrimination Act
1975 (SDA) and discrimination that is unlawful
under the Equal Pay Act 1970 (EqPA).
Promote equality of opportunity between women
and men.
Demonstrate that men and women are treated
fairly in the process of policy-making, public
services and employment practices
The public authorities also have specific duties
to:
Publish a Gender Equality Scheme (including
an Action Plan)
Consult employees, service users and trade
unions
Demonstrate that the Scheme sets out appropriate
actions the authority has taken or intends to
take
Implement the scheme, report annually on progress
and review and revise accordingly
Source: Redbridge Borough Council
website, 30th March 2007
A Career
in Construction Bconstructive are
looking for people who are interested in their ‘Step into Construction’ project.
This is a project aimed at females and Black Ethnic
Minorities who would like to enter employment and
training in construction. For more information
contactgenia.duff-cooper@citb.co.uk
Women’s
Business Development Agency The Women’s
Business Development Agency was set up in 1990
to help promote, support and
develop
female-run businesses and to help women get into
work. For more information visit http://www.wbda.co.uk
Everywoman
Everywoman provides resources and support services
for women in business. For further information
visit http://www.everywoman.co.uk/
The Women's National Commission
Is the official, independent, advisory body giving
the views of women to the Government and aims
to ensure that women's views are taken into account
by the Government and are heard in public debate.
For more information, see http://www.thewnc.org.uk/
Women
Returners’ Network
The Women Returners’ Network (WRN) deals
with issues for women returning to work or learning.
For more information, go to http://www.women-returners.co.uk/cms/
Women into Science and Engineering
Women into Science and Engineering (WISE) encourages
women of all ages to consider starting or returning
to careers in science and engineering. It’s
website is: http://www.wisecampaign.org.uk
Women
Engineers Required
The Marine, Engineering and Manufacturing Skills Partnership (MEMS) are
looking to encourage more women to the engineering sector in order
to plug a recruitment shortage. Reports have highlighted that in the
last year the number of graduates moving into engineering have declined,
and that there are currently 50,000 women who are skilled and qualified
in science, technology and engineering but not working in the sector.
Currently, women only make up 6% of the UK Engineering workforce. MEMS
are now looking to use job brokerage schemes to encourage women into
the industry.
Business Ownership
Prowess is a network who supports the growth of women’s business
ownership by raising awareness and sharing good practice and information.
220 members support 100,000 women to start 10,000 new businesses each
year. Further information is available here
There is also information on the North Hampshire Chamber of Commerce
Women in Business Group on www.nhcci.co.uk.
National Women’s Enterprise Task Force
National Women’s Enterprise Task Force, http://www.prowess.org.uk is
a network of partners and organisations that support women’s
business ownership. The facts pages on the website contain a wide range
of facts and figures relating to women in the workforce.
In
four of the UK regions women are more likely
than men to be setting up a socially orientated
venture or activity – the East Midlands,
London, the North East and the South East.
(Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, GEM 2004)
80%
of women compared with 17% of men are responsible
for looking after the children or arranging
childcare facilities. (The barriers start
to fall – Barclays 2000)
A
full time nursery place for a child under
two typically costs over £7000 per
year. (Childcare Costs Survey, Daycare Trust,
Jan 2005)
The
costs of care can be higher for business
owners who have no option but to work flexibly
and
travel to develop their business. But unlike
other essential business costs, caring is
not tax deductable.
There
is a severe shortage of registered childcare
places - there are only enough childcare
places for 25% of children aged under 8.
(Daycare Trust, Jan 2005)
Total
Entrepreneurial Activity (TEA) for white
females is 3.6% and is two and a half times
higher amongst women from mixed backgrounds
(10.2%), for Bangladeshi women it is (10.9%),
Other Asians (10.3%) and Black Caribbeans
(10.5%). The most entrepreneurial female
grouping is that of 'other Black' at (29.9%)
of all women. (Global Entrepreneurship Monitor,
GEM, Jan 2004)
Government Green Paper Published about Foreign Nationals Seeking British Citizenship
After a UK-wide consultation, a Green Paper ‘The path to citizenship’ has been published. People who took part in the consultation wanted those seeking British Citizenship to obey the law, speak English, pay their way and contribute to their community. The Green Paper sets out the following proposals:
Three stages towards citizenship, including a probationary period requiring migrants to show their contribution to the UK. During this probationary period, migrants will not have full access to benefits.
Improved ability to speak English in order to pass probation
Anyone who has been in prison being barred from citizenship
Migrants contributing to a fund to manage the transitional impacts of migration for communities affected by migration
Migrants involved in volunteering attaining British citizenship more quickly.
Major changes are also currently taking place in the immigration system. A new Australian style points based system is being introduced, as well as a single border force for ports and airports, fingerprinting of visa applicants, new systems to count people in and out and ID cards. In November, there will be a new Bill put forward, replacing all existing immigration laws.
The Path to Citizenship green paper is available from: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk
Source: GNN, 20th February 2008
English Lessons to be Targeted for Migrants The Government will now be targeting English language lessons for migrants who have long term needs. Classes will be free for longstanding residents on benefits who have poor English. Demand for the courses trebled between 2001 and 2005. Local authorities will be given priorities for who should take part, and employers of migrants will be asked to pay for classes. Non-English speakers are now asked to contribute over a third of the course fees, and half of the fees from 2010. The LSC funds ESOL courses, and will in future liaise with councils to decide priority groups.
Priorities will be based on local and national priorities, including:
residents expected to stay in the country long-term
excluded women, particularly those with children under 16
parents or carers in families with multiple problems
those identified as raising particular issues for community cohesion
people with low levels of literacy in their own language
those with no secondary education
refugees
asylum seekers still in the country beyond six months awaiting a decision on their status or who cannot return home
Source: BBC online, 4th January 2008
Law to Combat Religious Hatred Now in Force
At the start of October the Racial and Religious Hatred Act came into force in England and Wales. The Act sets up a new offence of intentionally encouraging religious hatred against people on religious grounds. While Jews and Sikhs were covered under previous legislation against racial hatred, Muslims and Christians were not covered as they were seen as religious rather than racial groups. The Act can be found at: http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2006/20060001.htm
Source: GNN, 1st October 2007
Handbook and Network Launched
For Forced Marriage Survivors
The government’s forced marriage unit has launched
a new support network and handbook for victims of
forced marriage. The unit handles around 5,000 enquiries
each year, and helps to rescue around 300 women,
children and men trapped in abusive forced marriages
per year. 15% of cases involve men and 30% of cases
involve minors.
The new handbook offers
practical help and information for the survivors
of forced marriages. The survivors’ network
is also being launched in partnership with Karma
Nirvana, which is an NGO dealing with forced marriages.
The network aims to offer long-term emotional support.
The survivors’ handbook
can be found here
Source: GNN, 8th May 2007 The
Ethnic Minority Achievement Service
The Ethnic Minority Achievement Service has bilingual
assistants from 22 different languages. The service
works with schools to promote parental partnership.
It also offers parent conferencing for new arrival
families who want to find out about the English education
system. They can take part in a 5 week course called ‘How
Schools Work’. For more information contact
Karen Thomas on 023 9273 3130.
A Career in Construction
Bconstructive are looking for people who are
interested in their ‘Step
into Construction’ project. This is a project aimed at females
and Black Ethnic Minorities who would like to enter employment and
training in construction. For more information contact genia.duff-cooper@citb.co.uk
Interpreting and Translation
Interpreting and Translation information is available from
Interpreting and Translation Services
Havant Local Education Office
River Way
Havant
PO9 2EL
02392 441450
Working with Refugees A website for those working with refugees
has pages dedicated to helping those working with adults and children.
The children’s pages
offer advice and case studies from Early Years through to 16-19.
The National
Refugee Integration Forum (NRIF) also offers advice on employment
and training for refugees. Visitwww.nrif.org.uk
Easier Ways of Returning Library
Materials
The Society of Chief Librarians has agreed that children and young
people who are Travellers, looked-after or refugees/asylum-seekers – and
their parents or carers – can return library materials to
any library in the UK (also without any overdue charges being made),
and that the library will then make arrangements to return the
items to the originating library free-of-charge. This decision
also ties in to the work currently being developed by the Social
Exclusion Unit on “Disadvantaged people who move frequently.”
Source: http://www.gypsy-traveller.org/press.htm#library Commission For Racial Equality Funded Organisations
Throughout 2005 and 2006 the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) funded
86 organisations that work in local areas, amongst local communities
and promote racial equality as well as tackling racial discrimination.
The funding went towards racial equality councils and partnerships
(RECs and REPs) and also law centres, housing partnerships and community
organisations. For further information on the CRE and centres across
the UK
click
here.
NATSPEC is a member association for specialist independent
colleges catering for people with learning difficulties
and disabilities. For further information, see http://www.natspec.org.uk/
Click
here to see information for disabled people provided
by Directgov, the provider of public services information.
For a list of specialist independent colleges providing
further education and training to meet the learning
needs of students with learning difficulties and/or
disabilities, see http://www.natspec.org.uk/index.php?id=4
WORKSTEP - Improved Employer Incentive
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions has announced changes to the WORKSTEP programme which helps disabled people find and retain paid employment. The sustained progression payment is to increase from £500 to £2000. The aim is to provide a better financial incentive for providers to move people into unsupported, independent work when they are able and ready to do so. Supported employees on the WORKSTEP programme either work in jobs in the open labour market, in supported placements, or within supported businesses established to employ disabled people.
Source: GNN, 21st January 2008
Independent Living Strategy Published
The Office for Disability Issues has published the ‘Independent Living Strategy’, which is a cross-government strategy, developed in partnership with disabled people with the aim of giving them more choice and control over the support they receive and greater access to transport, health, employment and housing.
The Government has a vision of equality for all disabled people by 2025. Six central Government departments have committed as part of the strategy to give disabled people more opportunities by working with disabled people and their organisations.
The Strategy includes the following commitments:
To develop a national strategy supporting people to stay in work should they become disabled or if their condition deteriorates
An awareness campaign targeting disabled people, and practitioners in social work, the NHS and other organisations to ensure that services are delivered in ways that give disabled people more choice
To demonstrate how to shift resources from professional assessment and care management to user-led advocacy, brokerage and support
A toolkit to assist in building local independent living strategies relating to older disabled people
A regional scheme to develop independent living opportunities for older disabled people who need high levels of support
Good practice guidance to help people to have choice and control over their future health care.
The Department of Health has announced additional funding for 12 user-led organisations that support disabled people to have more choice and control.
Government Advisory Network of Disabled People Meets for First Time
Equality 2025 held its first public meeting in Birmingham on 12 November 2007 in order to seek the opinions of disabled people about items that government need to tackle. Equality 2025 aims to influence government policy relating to services for disabled people, and has 23 members with a variety of disabilities and experience. It has a membership of 23 disabled people with diverse impairments, skills and experiences.
To find out more, visit http://www.officefordisability.gov.uk/equality2025/
Source: GNN, 5th October 2007
New Work Tests To Be Introduced for Disabled People
The Government has announced it will introduce a new work capability test for disabled people from October 2008. The test now focuses on what disabled people can do, rather than what they cannot do, aiming to reduce the number of people claiming incapacity benefit. The Employers’ Forum on Disability (EFD) has welcomed the introduction of the new test, but believes that employers must be given more support to enable disabled people to gain sustainable jobs. The EFD is also concerned that the test may not reflect the ability of those with fluctuating conditions such as cancer, HIV or mental ill health.
The new tests look at employment potential, and assess work-related skills rather than how many steps people can climb or what they can carry.
The Government estimates that 50% of people taking the assessment will not pass it, so that 20,000 fewer people a year will enter 'sickness' benefits as a result, and will instead be given the support and skills they need to get a job. The test will be introduced in October 2008 alongside the new Employment and Support Allowance and will apply to people claiming the new allowance. It replaces the current Personal Capability Assessment,
Source: GNN, 19th November 2007; HRLook website, 20th November 2007
College’s Pioneering Policy
Treloar College in Alton is the UK’s first beacon college for seriously disabled young people. It has now pioneered a “sex policy” to help its students form loving relationships. The creation of the policy came about eight years ago, after a 17-year-old girl with cerebral palsy asked if her illness meant that she could not “fancy” anyone. The college then looked into how it could develop a policy to help consenting 16-25 year olds follow their desires. The policy was piloted for a year before a formal policy at the college was created.
The Treloar’s Sexuality in Further Education (SAFE) policy states: “Helping students towards self-fulfilment is not just an ancillary to educational aims but an integral feature of the college’s task. To exclude from this task support in intimate relationships would be to deny students the same opportunity as other young people.”
The move means that staff who have been specially trained can help the young people to have a physical relationship as long as both parties are consenting and there in no abuse of power. The policy does not just relate to sex, it also means that students can go to a strip club or have sexual magazines and DVDs. The policy is now being made available to other colleges and hospices to use.
Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk, 8th October 2007
Mencap’s Gateway Awards
Mencap's Gateway Award can offer an exciting range of activites and opportunities to give young people the confidence and skills to reach their goals. Aimed at anyone who is 13 or over, the Award is particularly suitable for young people with a learning disability. They can take part in three different awards - bronze, silver and gold. Young people usually take the bronze award first, and the silver and gold later on. It is also possible to enter the silver and gold awards directly. Young people have to complete five sections when they take part in each award: Hobbies, Service, Adventure Challenge, Physical Recreation and Lifestyle. To find out more visit http://www.mencap.org.uk/gatewayaward, call 0121 707 7877 or email gateway.award@mencap.org.uk
ODI Research Published About
Independent Living
The Office for Disability Issues (ODI) has published
research Better outcomes, lower costs summarising
existing evidence relating to savings to social and
health care budgets that can be attained by investing
in housing adaptations in addition to the benefits
that individuals and wider society experience through
independent living.
Support for Pupils with Dyslexia
The ‘No to Failure’ project was launched
in the London Borough of Southwark during May, aiming
to ensure that children with dyslexia get support
at school. The project has identified ‘trailblazer’ schools
and local authorities offering good practice in meeting
the needs of students with dyslexia. Through these ‘trailblazers’ the
project plans to deliver the following:
• Champion specialist
dyslexia training for teachers;
• Develop examples of good practice which can be extended
locally and nationally; and
• Forge stronger partnerships with dyslexia charities
and businesses to provide quality support and education
for dyslexia pupils.
The government is offering £900,000
in funding to be matched by charitable contributions
in cash
or kind to launch 'No to Failure' as an independent,
managed project. The first pilot project is in the
London Borough of Southwark.
Source: GNN, 15th May 2007
Disability Now
Disability Now is a monthly online magazine for
disabled people. The site features information
on learning,
living, news and there is also a job vacancy
section. To view the website click
here.
DisabledGo
DisabledGo is a website that provides information
for disabled people. The site offers information
on how accessible hotels, cinemas, restaurants,
offices, pubs, shops and other services are
across the UK. The site also has a job searching
facility
featuring inclusive employers. For more information
visit http://www.disabledgo.info/Default.asp
Launch of images of disability website
Targeting communications professionals, the http://www.imagesofdisability.gov.uk website has recently been launched, giving guidance about the way to
portray disabled people in communications materials. The website includes
the following materials:
An extensive Media Gallery - containing examples
of positive portrayals of disabled people across
a range of media channels
'How to...' guides and templates - from campaign
briefing to production
Sample briefs
Tips and techniques about effectively applying
a disability message to a campaign
Useful research material
Case studies and articles about disability
Source: GNN 07/08/06
Queen Elizabeth's Foundation Training College
Queen Elizabeth's Foundation Training College provides
work based residential training for adults with disabilities
or long term health problems, who are hoping to gain
sustainable employment. They offer 13 courses in
commercial, technical and trade subjects and use
a holistic approach which helps with confidence building.
There is also the opportunity to achieve nationally
recognised qualifications (available on almost all
courses). The training begins with an assessment
and offers continued support, following which there
is the opportunity to undertake a period of work
experience in the person's home area. A limited number
of non-residential places are available. Application
is made via the Disability Employment Adviser at
Job Centre Plus and is available to those on Incapacity
Benefit, Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance
living in the UK. Further information, a prospectus
and details of open days can be found by clicking
here otherwise contact
Angela Webb on 01372 841152 or angela.webb@qetc.org Hampshire Deaf Association Hampshire Deaf Association can be contacted 02380 516516 or on enquiries@deafhampshire.org
Television Channel for Deaf People
A new television channel which is dedicated for deaf
people has been launched. The channel is called
VeeSee and viewers will be able to watch sign language
news and television programmes 24 hours a day.
The channel can be accessed via the internet or
a set-top box. Deaf film makers also get to show
off their skills through the television channel.
To view the VeeSee website visit http://www.veesee.co.uk/
Skill
Skill: The National Bureau
for students with disabilities is a charity promoting
opportunities for people with disabilities in Post
16 Education,
Training and Education across the UK. Click
here for further information.
New Deal
New Deal for Disabled People is a voluntary support programme to help
disabled people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight get back into work.
The free service helps clients improve their CV and Interview skills.
More information is available on 0800 389 0231.
Supported Employment Services
A number of organisations offering support are also available within
Portsmouth. The Beneficial Foundation offer training schemes to prepare
disabled people for work and can be contacted on 02392 733822. Portsmouth-
based Shaw Trust are also available on 02393 876094.
In Andover, the Enham Enabling Partnership offer learning, training
and access to work for those with physical disabilities. The telephone
number
for the Partnership is 01264 345800.
North Hampshire based charity, Mencap Pathway, are looking for firms
in Basingstoke, who are willing to offer job opportunities for people
with learning difficulties.
Rise in Carers’ Allowable Earnings
At the start of October, the amount carers can earn without losing Carer’s Allowance rose from £87 to £95 per week, after income tax and NI contributions. From April 2008, the rise means that carers should be able to receive over £7,500 in combined earnings and benefits. The Government is currently reviewing the National Carers Strategy. Carers who employ someone to look after children under 16 or a disabled person are still entitled to the Carer’s Allowance and can earn more than the normal limit.
Source: GNN, 21st September 2007
Pensions Act Gives Boost for Women and Carers
Thanks to the Pensions Act 2007, women and carers have received a huge boost. Reforms to the state pension system which have received Royal Assent mean many women on low incomes could receive an extra £50 a week by 2050 from the state pension.
At present to achieve a full Basic State Pension, women and men must contribute 39 and 44 years respectively. However when the new system comes into play from April 2010, this will be lowered to 30 for men and women. By 2046 the Act will have gradually increased the State Pension Age to 68 for men and women. Not only will the Act come as a boost for women and carers, but it will also re-link the Basic State Pension with earnings from 2012, or by the end of the next Parliament, and provides for a simpler flat rate state pension.
Source: GNN, 26th July 2007
2.6 Million Carers Get Right To Request Flexible Working
From April 2007, 2.6 million carers will get the right to request flexible
working as the Work and Families Act comes into force.
Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling
said:
"Over 2.65m carers
will have the right to request flexible working
for the first time. It
will make a real difference to those who give so
much. It takes the number of people with this right
to more than six million since it was first introduced
in 2003 for parents of young and disabled children.
"Those rights are
being worked through closely with business, who
increasingly realise flexible
working makes sense for them.
"Flexible working
for carers is right for business, right for families
and is at the centre
of the modern work-life balance economy."
Source: GNN, 6th April 2007
Support For Unpaid Carers
The Chancellor Gordon Brown has stated the councils
in Hampshire will receive an extra £720,000 so that unpaid carers can have a break
in times of need. The money for 2007/2008 is an extra to the £5.3million
allocated for care across Hampshire. Hampshire County Council will
get an extra £448,000, Isle of Wight Council will receive an
extra £75,000, Southampton City Council £109.000 and Portsmouth
City Council £91,000. The money is part of a government national
support package for carers. MP John Denham for Southampton said: “I
am delighted that government has recognised the contribution that
carers make to society and has allocated additional funding to support
them.”
Source: www.dailyecho.co.uk, 26th February 2007
New guide to improve information for disabled
people
A five point guide to improve information for disabled
people has been launched by Minister for Disabled
People, Anne McGuire. The Office for Disability
Issues (ODI) wrote the guide following research
showing that a lack of, or misleading information,
can be an important factor in preventing disabled
people from getting services they need.
The new guide contains five guidelines to improve
information for disabled people:
1. Ensure that disabled people are involved from
the start
2. Provide information through a range of channels
and formats
3. Ensure your information meets users' needs
4. Clearly signpost other services
5. Always make it clear who is responsible for
the information provided.
Source: GNN 6th February 2007
4Children can give contact information for local
out of school clubs and facilities for primary-age
children. For further details, visit: http://www.4children.org.uk
One Parent Families is a charity providing information
and support to lone parents. For further details,
visit: http://www.oneparentfamilies.org.uk
The Children's Workforce Development Council
For a one stop shop for information on the children and families workforce, go to The Children's Workforce Development Council (CWDC). It is one of five bodies forming the UK Skills For Care and Development Sector Skills Council. The CWDC coordinates the Children's Workforce Network and one of its aims is to improve the lives of children and young people by ensuring that the people working with children have the best possible training, qualifications, support and advice. It will also help children and young people's organisations and services to work together so that the child is at the centre of all services. For more information visit http://www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/
South East and London Most Expensive for Childcare
A survey by the Daycare Trust says that childcare costs rose 5% last year, and that parents in London and the South East are paying the most for childcare. The average price of a full-time nursery place in England for children under 2 was £159 per week. In London and the South East typical costs were £161-£202 per week rising to £750 for some.
The cost of childcare in out-of-school clubs had also risen around six times the rate of inflation to an average of £43 per week. The costs quoted do not include government funding via tax credits, childcare vouchers and free nursery places for three year old children. However, the Trust believes that the British pay more for childcare than people in other parts of Europe, even when tax credits and vouchers are included. On average, the Trust says that parents are contributing on average 70% of childcare costs, compared with an average of 30% elsewhere in Europe.
Source: BBC Online, 29th January 2008
‘Good’ Childcare Places Have Declined
According to a report by Ofsted, there has been a 4% drop in the proportion of childcare settings in England judged to be good or outstanding.
The education watchdog labelled 4% of childminders, nurseries and crèches as "inadequate", with weaknesses such as an insufficient range of toys and activities, lack of regular observation or poor staff training.
The Ofsted report named ‘Getting on Well: Enjoying, Achieving and Contributing’, follows a study from Durham University which suggested Government initiatives in early years have done nothing to improve the educational standards of those entering primary school.
The report found that childcare was rated as "satisfactory" or better in 96% of settings and Ofsted has estimated that of the estimated 500,000 children cared for in the settings inspected this year, 285,000 were receiving "good" or "outstanding" care.
Source: BBC online, 28th August 2007
Pensions Act Gives Boost for Women and Carers
Thanks to the Pensions Act 2007, women and carers have received a huge boost. Reforms to the state pension system which have received Royal Assent mean many women on low incomes could receive an extra £50 a week by 2050 from the state pension.
At present to achieve a full Basic State Pension, women and men must contribute 39 and 44 years respectively. However when the new system comes into play from April 2010, this will be lowered to 30 for men and women. By 2046 the Act will have gradually increased the State Pension Age to 68 for men and women. Not only will the Act come as a boost for women and carers, but it will also re-link the Basic State Pension with earnings from 2012, or by the end of the next Parliament, and provides for a simpler flat rate state pension.
Source: GNN, 26th July 2007
The Early Years Foundation Stage framework published
The DfES has published the Early Years Foundation Stage
(EYFS) framework, setting the standards for development,
learning and care of children from 0 to 5 years old.
The framework has been produced after consulting with
early learning professionals and parents and replaces
the non-statutory Birth to Three Matters guidance,
the Foundation Stage curriculum for 3 and 4 year olds
and national standards for daycare. The underpinning
principles of the framework are that each child should
be treated as unique and children should be in loving
and secure relationships and environments in which
they can learn and develop at their own pace and with
enjoyment.
All registered early
years’ providers and
schools will be required to use the EYFS from September
2008.
The EYFS will also be published as an online tool,
with practical demonstrations showing people how
they can use the framework in a way that is tailored
to the needs of individual children in their care,
and carry out the planning that will ensure every
child benefits from it. The framework is available
online at: http://www.teachernet.gov.uk/eyfs
Source: GNN, 13th March 2007
Homestart
Homestart is a charity which has over 300 branches in Britain. Winchester’s branch opened in 2006 and the organisation has around 30 volunteers who visit families for a couple of hours each week. They give advice and support to help make parenting easier. The Winchester branch has its base inside the Lanterns centre in Bereweeke Road. For more information visit http://www.home-startwinchester.org.uk/
New Web Resource Aimed at Youngsters
A new website for young people who live on the
Isle of Wight has been launched. The website http://www.greengoldfish.com is a resource designed and maintained through a
partnership between the Youth Trust, the University
of Portsmouth and funding from the Department of
Trade and Industry. The website contains specific
information for young people who live on the Island.
There is information on travel, jobs, money, health
and education. There are two sections of the website.
One section is aimed at younger children and the
other section is geared towards older children.
Source: www.iwbeacon.org.uk, 12th January 2007
For information
on childcare visit www.hants.gov.uk/childcare
or phone 0845 602 1125 for the helpline run by the Early Education
and Childcare Unit.
The following links are taken from ChildcareLink which is funded by
the Sure Start Unit and Scottish Executive as part of their national
childcare
strategies. This site is developed, managed and maintained by Opportunity
Links as part of their role in running the ChildcareLink programme
The website includes information on childminders, day nurseries, out
of school care and schemes, pre-school play groups. The information
produced also indicates whether the childcare service includes pick
up from local
schools.
Advisers can find information on other areas from the website also.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight
For information on childcare for the South East as a whole follow this
link. Links below take users to the specified small areas: w
