Phase 2 evaluation of Multiple Provider Employment Zones: Qualitative study
Research Report No. 399
by the Policy Research Institute, Leeds Metropolitan University
In 2003 four of the largest Employment Zones (in Birmingham, Liverpool, London and Glasgow) were converted into Multiple Provider Employment Zones (MPEZs) with up to three providers delivering Employment Zone services. Part of the rationale for the MPEZ model is notionally to test the impact of competition between providers, with clients being allocated to providers on a pre-arranged contractual distribution of market share.
This report presents the findings of the Phase 2 qualitative study of the operation and impact of the MPEZ initiative, carried out by the Policy Research Institute, Leeds Metropolitan University, building on the Phase 1 study undertaken by Cambridge Policy Consultants.
The study involved interviews with EZ Providers (managers and Advisers), Jobcentre Plus representatives (managers and Advisers) and customers (young people returning from the New Deal for Young People (NDYP), lone parents and early entrants). In order to gain a wider perspective, researchers also spoke to representatives of organisations that have employed MPEZ participants and a number of stakeholder organisations with a broad interest in local labour market policies and programmes in the MPEZ areas.
The report presents findings regarding the operation and performance of EZ providers in MPEZ areas and changes in referral processes and flows of clients. Client, provider and Jobcentre Plus perspectives on MPEZ services and their impact are examined in some detail. The report concludes by bringing together respondents' views on the value added by the multiple provider approach and sets out some issues for consideration as the MPEZ initiative develops.
November 2006
ISBN 1 84712 112 8
