Work for benefits scheme by end of the year
SUPPLEMENTARY benefit claimants could see their handout cut if they fail to take part in a new mandatory work scheme or attend regular employment meetings.
Social Security released details this morning of the new scheme, which will be seen as a crackdown on islanders abusing the benefits system.
The department also announced it is reviewing the way it assesses work incapacity, which it believes will lead to less long-term unemployment.
The department's new Progress to Work scheme, which has required new legislation, is set to come into force towards the end of the year.
However, until the new law takes effect, minister Allister Langlois, pictured, said those of working age who are able to work, and any non-working partners living in the same household, would be urged to get involved on a voluntary basis.
'The new focus on work and personal responsibility will be vital in ensuring that supplementary benefit is fit for purpose in the future and that it encourages and supports people who seek work,' he said.
While it is hoped people would 'engage positively' in both schemes, the department confirmed that eventually benefit penalties would be applied if people failed to take part 'without good cause'.
