§ 22. Ms Dari TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans he has to help people affected by large-scale redundancies to find work. [36348]
§ Mr. Nicholas BrownThrough the Rapid Response Service, we are strengthening and expanding the help we can offer people affected by large scale redundancy. We have been developing the service in pilot areas since September 2000, and across all regions since April 2001. All the elements of the service will be in place next month, supported by a further investment of £6 million over two years.
The aim of the service is to support individuals, employers and communities affected by significant redundancies and help people make the transition into sustainable new jobs. The service will work closely with key partners in the local area, such as the Regional Development Agencies, the Learning and Skills Council and trade unions, to co-ordinate an immediate response to a significant redundancy.