Jobcentres should focus on 'quality over quantity' with claimants' applications

24 January 2023 , 00:01

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Job Centres should focus on the 'quality of applications over quantity' (Image: Getty Images)

Jobseekers on Universal Credit should be encouraged to apply for roles they are suited to rather than firing off mass applications, a report is urging.

In a new study researchers at Manchester Metropolitan University say firms are wasting time wrestling with large volumes of "inappropriate applications".

It suggests the existing system is "costly" for businesses and Job Centres should instead focus on the "quality of applications over quantity".

Last year as part of a drive to get more people into work, the Tories introduced controversial changes for claimants searching for work.

The Department for Work and Pensions reduced the time given to those on Universal Credit to find a job in their 'preferred sector' - from 3 months to 4 weeks - or face the prospect of a benefit sanction.

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The report, including interviews with over 100 firms, warns employers "routlinely complained about a high volume of inappropriate applications,which they felt was generated by the DWP's emphasis on moving people into any job quickly".

The DWP introduced changes for people searching for jobs last year (In Pictures via Getty Images)

It added: "What is clear across the board is that the UK's system of employment support currently falls short.

"Rather than effectively supporting recruitment, the long-established Work First approach instead results in a high volume of inappropriate applications which is costly to manage."

"Most employers want to recruit people who both want and are able to do their jobs, and can be reluctant to engage in a system widely seen as punitive.

"Greater emphasis on the quality of applications over the quantity, and more on matching candidates to the jobs that suit their capabilities and wider circumstances would deliver better outcomes for individuals, employers and the wider economy."

The report also claims that firms have "largely been excluded" from the debate over the benefits system.

Research Fellow Dr Katy Jones said: “The DWP needs to shift its focus from requiring jobseekers to move into any job quickly and instead focus on the quality rather than the quantity of job applications.

"Jobcentres should do more to match candidates with suitable employers, by supporting people into roles and sectors which suit their capabilities and experience, and by investing in higher quality CV support and training."

A government spokesperson said: “Our welfare system, including Universal Credit, helps millions of people every year, enabling them to support themselves and their families while building towards financial independence through work.

“In the first half of 2022 we supported half a million claimants into work – using our Jobcentres to get claimants in front of employers and filling vacancies through individually-tailored, one-to-one support.

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"We are also helping people in work by raising the Administrative Earnings Threshold so even more claimants will receive intensive support.

“We recognise one of our biggest challenges is how to support people to start or return to work, which is why we continue to look into workforce participation and driving down economic inactivity at pace.”

Ashley Cowburn