Group Work/Jobs II: Process Evaluation Technical Report

This document describes an evaluation of the Group Work/JOBS II program, which aims to improve employment prospects and mental health for unemployed individuals in the UK. The program, inspired by the US JOBS II model, includes group sessions to boost self-efficacy, self-esteem, and social assertiveness, as well as telephone support and online mental health assessments. The evaluation, led by a research consortium including ICF and Dr. Adam Coutts from the University of Cambridge, employed Randomised Control Trials, observational research, interviews, and participant observation methodologies. Results showed that the program enhanced motivation, confidence, mental health, and job search behavior, with particularly positive effects for those at risk of depression and those who secured stable employment. Success factors included active participation, effective group leadership, and the skills and attitudes of Work Coaches. Challenges such as varying participation rates and the need to tailor content to individual needs were noted. The evaluation underscores the importance of social support and follow-up in Active Labour Market Policies, recommending further research in the UK context. **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 of Health and Social Care (DHSC)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: Department for Work and Pensions
• Evaluation types: Impact evaluation; Process evaluation
• Impact methods: Theory-based methods
• Theory-based methods: Other
• Process methods: Individual interviews
• 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: July 2021

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