WIREDGOV

• Nearly half - 46% - of the first jobseekers referred to do a month's full time activity under the Mandatory Work Activity scheme either signed off Jobseekers' Allowance or failed to turn up rather than starting the placement. Those failing to turn up face losing their JSA.
• Of those early referrals 29% signed off JSA over the 21 weeks following the referral instead of starting.
• Between May 2011 and February 2012, 16,790 people started a Mandatory Work Activity placement. The extra funding will allow for 9,000 extra places a year.

"People need to be aware that for those who are fit enough to work it is simply not an option to sit on benefits and do nothing.

"We've found that a month's full time activity can be a real deterrent for some people who are either not trying or who are gaming the system. But we're also fighting a battle to stop claimants slipping back into the benefits system by the back door.

"That's why for the extended roll out of Mandatory Work Activity we will toughen up the sanctions regime and make sure that anyone re-claiming JSA will have to complete a full placement or face a further sanction."

• Started May 2011
• 4 week placements of up to 30 hours per week
• Gives extra support to a small number of Jobseeker's Allowance claimants who would benefit from a short period of activity. It helps them re-engage with the system, refocus their job search and gain work-related disciplines.
• Delivered by contracted providers who source placements. The Department does not specify what the placement should be, but does expect that every placement will offer people the opportunity to gain fundamental work disciplines, as well as being of benefit to local communities.
• Providers are responsible for reasonable travel, childcare and additional support costs while the claimant is undertaking a placement.
• Jobcentre Plus advisers have the flexibility to refer claimants to Mandatory Work Activity, where they feel it is appropriate, as part of a wider range of support options.
• People cannot be referred if they are already taking part in the Work Programme or other contracted provision.
• Failure to complete a Mandatory Work Activity placement without good cause will result in the sanction of Jobseeker's Allowance for three months. This will rise to six months for a second breach. From later in 2012 a three year fixed sanction will apply for a third violation.
  
  

• Work Experience is for 16-24 year old JSA claimants in Great Britain, and participation is voluntary.
• Work experience is available to 16-17 year olds from day one, 18-24 year olds from 13 weeks.
• Placements generally last two to eight weeks.
• Travel, childcare costs and reasonable adjustment costs are paid if required.
• JSA can be stopped due to gross misconduct.