HC Deb 05 May 2004 vol 420 cc1560-1W
Mr. George Osborne

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what independent evaluation of the Pathways to Work pilot programme has been undertaken. [168847]

Maria Eagle

The first tranche of Pathways to Work pilots were launched in October 2003 and the second tranche in April 2004. An independent evaluation of the pilots has been commissioned and will be carried out by independent research organisations managed by DWP analysts.

Mr. George Osborne

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what role there is for(a) private companies and (b) voluntary organisations in the delivery of Pathways to Work. [168848]

Maria Eagle

Seven Pathways to Work pilot areas are now operational; they are managed and run by Jobcentre Plus with additional specialist services provided from a number of sources.

The New Deal for Disabled People plays a key role in helping people on incapacity benefits into employment with support provided by organisations from the private, voluntary and public sectors. Jobcentre Plus also has contracts with private and voluntary organisations to deliver specialist disability employment programmes such as Work Preparation, Workstep, and Work Based Learning for Adults.

In addition, the Pathways to Work pilots provide condition management programmes in conjunction with NHS Primary Care Trusts to help people with health conditions to better manage their condition and help them successfully return to work. Primary care Trusts can commission services from local providers, from public, private or voluntary sectors, in order to meet specific requirements.