Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many Jobcentre Plus staff have received training in careers advice and guidance since May 2010.

All Jobcentre Plus staff have access to a comprehensive and progressive learning programme designed to build the core skills and knowledge essential to the role. This learning encompasses the wide range of circumstances that our claimants may have, some less obvious than others, and stresses how important it is to treat people as individuals.

Specific features of the learning include the skills required to coach claimants in navigating what is required to find, gain and sustain employment, in an increasingly digital environment.

Work Coaches in particular are trained to have an understanding of local labour market information, using various tools to support claimants into work and training. Work Coaches can also signpost claimants to the National Careers Service, Careers Scotland and Careers Wales as required.