Early effects of the economic downturn on the Welfare to Work System in deprived areas (WP83)

This report investigates the early effects of the recent economic downturn on the ‘welfare to work infrastructure’ in deprived areas, in particular how it is able to continue to provide support to the most disadvantaged groups. The report provides context that will inform the Department for Work and Pensions and Jobcentre Plus’ response to the recent (and future) recessions in relation to support for disadvantaged areas and groups. The evidence presented also functions as a qualitative baseline against which the perceived success, within deprived areas, of measures to minimise the long-term impacts of the recession (e.g. the Young Person’s Guarantee) canbe considered.