DWP offers new opportunities for one million UC claimants

The additional training is available across the UK as part of the government’s plans to reduce regional inequality across the country

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed millions of job seekers could benefit from extra training.

Universal Credit claimants can attend full-time work related training courses for up to 12 weeks while still receiving benefit payments.

The extra training is available following an extension to the rules around the DWP Train and Progress (TaP) initiative last year.

Before the TaP initiative started in April 2021, claimants were limited to training lasting just eight weeks.

The Minister for Employment said jobseekers have benefited from improved training opportunities since the rule change as part of the aim to build a higher skilled, higher paid economy.

Mims Davies MP said: A higher skilled, higher paid jobs market is in everyone’s interests - and this change can help us get there.

It means jobseekers across Great Britain can build their skills and progress, seizing new opportunities as we bounce back from the pandemic, she said.

The additional training is available across the UK as part of the government’s plans to reduce regional inequality across the country.

The extension to DWP Train and Progress means those receiving Universal Credit who are in the intensive work search group can take advantage of more sector-specific training - from digital skills to social care and engineering - while continuing to receive financial support.

People of all ages can make the most of the opportunities, with Work Coaches matching jobseekers to the best courses for them.

Universal Credit claimants in England can also take part in the free Department for Education Skills Bootcamps for up to 16 weeks, and will be able to access the planned HGV Bootcamps.