16 Aug 2006
NEW DEAL REAPS REWARDS IN SCOTLAND - CAIRNS
The New Deal remains key to the Government's strategy towards helping more people into employment Scotland Office Minister David Cairns said today.
Commenting on the publication of the latest New Deal figures, Mr Cairns said:
"The New Deal continues to improve Scotland's workforce and is making a real difference to the lives of many Scots who have been able to take up work, often for the first time. It continues to make a significant contribution to the fight against long term unemployment. That is why those who advocate the abolition of the New Deal risk putting our economic stability at risk and condemning thousands of Scots to the misery of unemployment."
"It remains key to our ambition of ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to exploit their individual skills and experience to access good quality sustainable jobs."
Figures published today show that the New Deal has helped:
? 78,790 young people into jobs through New Deal for Young People;
? 30,260 people aged 25 years and over have also found jobs;
? 7,990 people aged 50 years and over have re-joined the labour market since April 2003;
? 50,000 lone parents have found work.
In addition:
? over 14,500 jobs have been gained through the New Deal for Disabled People; and
? 500 people have gained a job through the New Deal for Partners.
Mr Cairns added:
"The continuing success of the New Deal remains an important part of helping us towards our target of achieving an employment rate equivalent to 80 per cent of the working age population."
NOTES FOR EDITORS
1. The New Deal for Young People helps those aged 18-24 who have been claiming Jobseekers Allowance for 6 months or more. Special needs groups can enter New Deal earlier if they wish.
2. New Deal 25+ helps those over 25 who have been claiming JSA for 18 months or more.
3. New Deal for Lone Parents (NDLP) is open to lone parents in receipt of Income Support. Participation in the programme is voluntary.
4. New Deal 50plus is designed to help older people who are looking for practical help and support to move from benefit dependency into employment. It is a voluntary programme.
5. New Deal for Partners is a voluntary programme offering the partners of people claiming benefits support in tackling barriers to work.