Question

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister, what progress the Cabinet Secretary's review into the provision of assistance for unemployed young people has made.

The Government has announced a number of policies that have been informed by the review's findings, including two pilots for 18-21 year olds claiming Jobseeker's Allowance aimed at improving basic skills in Maths and English for those without level 2 from the beginning of their claim and ensuring people receive work or skills base activity best suited to their needs after six months. We will also be piloting, for the first time, extending Job Centre Plus advisor support to 16 and 17 year olds who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) and not in receipt of an out of work benefit. The Government has also introduced new statutory guidance for schools on careers guidance, and announced the creation of an online portal for post-16 education and training opportunities.