'Work for your benefits' plan to be launched
LONG-TERM benefit claimants who are fit to work will be forced into compulsory unpaid jobs as part of a radical new States initiative.
Social Security, which is launching the mandatory scheme this year, warned that anyone who fails to comply without good cause would face a reduction or suspension of their benefit payments.
The department is also seeking to change legislation to extend the scheme to other islanders in receipt of payments, such as people recovering from long-term sickness.
Social Security minister Allister Langlois said the new placements would be unwaged, but the claimant's benefits would remain in place throughout.
Deputy Langlois stressed that people who participated fully in the Job Centre and met the department's requirements, would not necessarily be expected to take a placement.
It was aimed particularly at people who have remained unemployed for at least six months or where re-engagement with the workplace was considered a priority, he said.
