Sector-based Work Academies and Work Experience Trials for Older Claimants

This document describes an evaluation of the effectiveness of sector-based work academies (sbwa) and work experience programs designed for older benefit claimants, with the goal of improving their job readiness, skills, and confidence. The evaluation, conducted by Ipsos MORI Social Research Institute, employed a mixed-method approach, including interviews and surveys with participants and host employers. Results showed that participants generally benefited from the programs, with improved skills and high levels of satisfaction, and 83% recommending the programs. However, there were issues with the delivery of program components and a need for more personalized support. Employers engaged with the programs to meet recruitment needs and to help individuals re-enter the workforce. The evaluation suggests that while the programs have potential, they require better structure and tailoring to individual needs to maximize their effectiveness. An impact assessment is planned to further evaluate the long-term benefits for older claimants. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Department for Work and Pensions
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: Department for Education (DfE)
• Evaluation types: Process evaluation
• Process methods: Other
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: February 2017

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes