§ Mr. Tom ClarkeTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what is his policy regarding items of equipment purchased under the access to work programme where the beneficiary has ceased to be employed but is actively seeking work. [25323]
§ Miss WiddecombeResponsibility for the subject of the question has been delegated to the Employment Service under its chief executive. I have asked him to arrange for a reply to be given.
Letter from A. G. Johnson to Mr. Tom Clarke, dated 23 May 1995:
The Secretary of State has asked me, in the absence of the Chief Executive, to reply to your question about the policy regarding items of equipment purchased under the Access to Work programme where the beneficiary has ceased to be employed but is actively seeking work.Special aids and equipment are supplied under the Access to Work programme to help overcome work related needs that arise because of disability. Where a person in receipt of such help is no longer employed but is actively seeking employment and continued use of that equipment would benefit them in finding work, they may retain the equipment for an agreed period at the discretion of the Employment Service. The equipment may then be used in their new job if appropriate.I hope this is helpful.