Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what training is provided to work coaches on violence against women and girls.

Jobcentre staff undergo a comprehensive learning journey designed to equip them with the tools, skills and behaviours required to provide a high quality service to all claimants.

Specific training and guidance is provided for staff who work with different vulnerable groups, including survivors and those still experiencing domestic abuse. Jobcentre staff will signpost claimants to national and local organisations that provide specialist support and Work Coaches can apply domestic violence easements, switching off all work-related requirements for a period of time.

In addition a national call was held earlier this year to raise awareness and understanding of domestic abuse across the Jobcentre network and a video has been produced to highlight good practice when supporting individuals who have been or are currently in a domestic abuse relationship.