£9.5 Million Boost to Tackle Unemployment in Reading

The MPs in Reading have welcomed news of a £9.

Reading's MPs are thrilled about a £9.5 million investment from the government aimed at breaking down barriers to employment.

With an unemployment rate of 3.5% in December 2023 and 5,000 individuals claiming benefits by March 2024, the government has launched the Connect to Work programme, part of a £167 million initiative benefiting nine areas in England, including Berkshire.

This scheme will support nearly 2,350 sick or disabled individuals in Berkshire with tailored local assistance to help them back into work.

Connect to Work offers personalised coaching, job matching services, and ongoing support for both job seekers and employers to ensure lasting employment.

Support options include embedding work advisers in GP surgeries, confidence-boosting workshops, and affordable childcare assistance.

Olivia Bailey, Labour MP for Reading West and Mid Berkshire, stated: “Too many of my constituents face barriers when looking for a job. This funding will transform lives by providing tailored support.”

Yuan Yang, Labour MP for Earley and Woodley, noted that the programme will help tackle high inactivity levels in the economy post-pandemic. Meanwhile, Matt Rodda, Labour MP for Reading Central, emphasised that this initiative will aid local people in re-entering the workforce and support local businesses seeking staff.

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden remarked: “We are giving people a hand up, not a handout, helping them realise their potential.”

Connect to Work is voluntary, allowing individuals facing barriers to work to self-refer or be referred through healthcare professionals, local authorities, or community partners.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter