Government Publishes ‘Get Britain Working’ White Paper

On November 26, the Government released its ‘Get Britain Working’ white paper, detailing plans to reform employment, health, and skills support. The Government aims to address economic inactivity and ensure that everyone has access to secure and meaningful employment.

The Government plans aim to address a number of areas to ensure those outside of the workforce can return, there’s adequate training, with a focus on young people, support with career progression and support for employers to recruit, retain and develop staff.

The Government’s white paper sets out proposals for action and change in a range of areas:

On Skills and Apprenticeships

• As part of the shift toward devolution, the Government is funding pilot programs in Wales and parts of England to test new approaches and engage those currently outside the workforce. Mayoral and local authorities will work with local partners, aligned with growth plans, to deliver the Youth Guarantee.
• The Government is implementing a Youth Guarantee to ensure all 18-21-year-olds in England have access to education, training, or support to secure a job or apprenticeship.
• The Government plans to enhance opportunities for young people by reforming the Apprenticeship Levy into a more flexible Growth and Skills Levy, backed by a further £40M investment. The white paper outlines plans to introduce new foundation and shorter apprenticeships in key sectors as part of this initiative.

On Employment and Recruitment

• Creating a new jobs and careers service to help people get into work and get on at work. The Government plans to merge Jobcentre Plus with the National Careers Service in England, to create a digital, inclusive platform. This service will also strengthen partnerships with employers to better match candidates to recruitment needs.
• The Government is launching an independent review into the role of UK employers in fostering healthy and inclusive workplaces. The review will explore how employers can improve the recruitment and retention of disabled individuals and those with health conditions, prevent workplace illness, promote healthy work environments, and support early intervention for sickness absence and increase returns to work. The review will run until next summer and include broad engagement with employers, employees, trade unions, health experts, and individuals with disabilities or health conditions.