The Work Programme is a UK Government's initiative, part funded by the European Social Fund, which provides a coordinated package of support to long-term unemployed individuals, regardless of the benefits they claim.

In June 2011, the Work Programme replaced most existing back-to-work programmes, including: New Deal; Flexible New Deal Phase 1; Pathways to Work; New Deal for Disabled People; and Employment Zones.

Serco delivers two Work Programme contracts on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions in:

• Coventry and Warwickshire, Staffordshire and The Marches; and
• South Yorkshire.

In less than 16 weeks of delivery, Serco and our network has supported over 1,000 people back to work across these two regions building on our success and previous experience in this market.

Individuals eligible for the Work Programme in these regions are referred by Jobcentre Plus to a Serco Work Programme subcontractor for flexible, tailored support to help them back to work. Participation on the programme is mandatory for the majority of customers, although some groups are able to volunteer.

Work Programme customers can find further information about our programme at www.yourworkprogramme.com. This site includes information about Serco's local providers, plus useful advice and support to assist our customers with their job search.

For further information, please email W2W@serco.com