Can the voluntary sector participate efficiently in the Work Programme?

There is serious concern over the power of the voluntary sector in delivering employment-related services under the Work Programme. The Third Sector Research Centre has released an evidence review calling for more information about third sector organisations involved in the Work Programme. There is little evidence on who they are or their characteristics. 

Evidence that exists suggests that they have little power to negotiate contracts and numbers of referrals received to them are uncertain and may be too low to ensure organisations' sustainability. This is despite a long track-record in effective delivery of employment-related services by the voluntary sector. It is argued Work Programme providers' targets are too tough meaning that as they are paid on results, their financial return will be low so they may cut back on costs. It is feared that the most disadvantaged, also the hardest to place into work, will suffer because of this. 

For more information visit the TRSC website.