AQW 24353/17-22

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 15/10/2021
Answered On Date: 10/11/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities when pre-pandemic access to job advice will be provided in Jobs and Benefits offices; and what review has been made into the effectiveness of job advice being provided in benefits offices.

Answer:

Despite the closure of Jobs & Benefits offices to the public, Work Coaches have continued to provide employment support and advice, tailored to the needs of individuals, through telephony and digital channels.

All Jobs & Benefits offices reopened for limited services in May this year. From that point there has been an incremental increase in face to face employment services for people who need this level of support. Offices will continue to assess the availability of face to face services in line with health and safety advice and guidance.

Service provision is monitored and reviewed continuously by local and senior management. This includes follow-up contact with individuals, employers and providers to assess their level of satisfaction with the local services provided.