§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what his policy is towards the provision of(a) toilet and (b) child facilities for claimants using benefits offices; and if he will make a statement. [29746]
§ Mr. Nicholas BrownPublic toilets have not traditionally been a feature in Jobcentres and Benefits Agency offices. However staff are sympathetic to the needs of customers, especially those with children, and can and do make staff toilets available where possible. This position has been reviewed with the introduction of the Jobcentre Plus Pathfinder offices, and the generic design includes the provision of toilets for both disabled and able-bodied customers. However, space limitations in the 56 recently completed Pathfinder offices has meant that the provision of toilets has not been possible in most sites.
The new Jobcentre Plus design and layout is being evaluated and we will endeavour to ensure that the provision of toilets becomes a more prominent and consistent feature.
The presence of children in Jobcentre/Jobcentre Plus offices has been an increasing consideration in their design over recent years, especially since the introduction of the new deal for lone parents. All public Employment Service offices have acknowledged this presence in the design of furniture components with rounded edges and
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Employment Service Benefits Agency England Scotland Wales England Scotland Wales Unknown 1997 — — — 73 6 8 13 1998 — — — 24 5 4 8 1999 225 14 6 108 13 8 — 2000 222 7 4 142 10 12 — 2001 210 2 10 110 7 18 — concealed cable management arrangements. Child facilities have not traditionally been a feature in Benefits Agency offices.
However the introduction of Jobcentre Plus has allowed for this need to be further addressed. Many of the Pathfinders have children's play tables installed both in waiting areas and adjacent to the parent adviser desks. These allow for parents and guardians to participate in interviews with less distraction while still keeping a close eye on the children. Customer waiting times have been reduced by arranging timed appointments for advisory interviews.