08 April 2008 – Publication of DWP research report: Pathways to Work: In-work Support: Qualitative Findings
A qualitative research report on the In-Work Support (IWS) component of the 'Pathways to Work' incapacity benefit reform pilots which provides in-depth accounts of customer and staff experiences is published today by the Department for Work and Pensions.
The research forms part of a comprehensive independent evaluation of 'Pathways to Work' which aims to consider the overall impact of the programme, in addition to understanding the different elements and how they affect the employment outcomes of incapacity benefit customers who take part.
The main findings are:
- 'Pathways to Work' In-work Support was not the only, or even primary source of support, but formed a helpful part of a jigsaw of support for most customers who use the service (i.e. alongside other Pathways elements and informal support). Customers valued the tailored and flexible nature of the service which meant it could meet a variety of customer needs.
- For customers with mental health issues, low self-confidence and uneven work histories, Pathways IWS was commonly cited as a very, and often the most, important source of support.
- The provision of IWS is an important service for those incapacity benefit customers not registered with a job broker through New Deal for Disabled People. It has an important role in maximising the sustainability of job outcomes achieved through 'Pathways to Work'.
Notes to editors:
- The DWP research report: Pathways to Work: In-work Support: Qualitative Findings is published today on the DWP website: http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd5/rports2007-2008/rrep478.pdf
- The report is based on qualitative interviews and analysis conducted by the National Centre for Social Research. The research included interviews with 30 customers and 12 Pathways IWS main providers; four specialist providers; and eight NDDP providers across four areas. The report authors were Josie Dixon and Martin Mitchell from the National Centre for Social Research.
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