A total of 350 private sector recruitment agencies have so far signed up to a new Government initiative which is offering specialist job search support to newly unemployed professionals and executives.

The initiative which is expected to run for two years, will inform work seekers on modern job hunting skills and how to update their skills to secure relevant jobs.  

Commenting on the scheme, Kevin Green, Chief Executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, said:

“We welcome DWP’s initiative to utilise the skills of the recruitment industry.  A number of those currently seeking work are from the higher end of the jobs market.  There is a real need for specific support and guidance especially as a number of jobseekers have not had to look for work for many years. 

“The recruitment market place is a very different one to what it was a decade ago with the take off of new job hunting techniques such as job boards and social networking sites. This scheme will help job seekers to fully utilise these tools and bring them up to speed with the modern labour market.”

James Purnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions,commented:

“We want everyone who loses their job to get the help they need to get back to work. That is why we are giving newly unemployed professionals the opportunity to access support from specialist recruitment agencies.

“We realise the need to provide tailored help to all job seekers, whatever their background, and Jobcentre Plus is geared-up to offer advice and support to everyone who is looking for work - irrespective of profession or occupation. However, some people from professional or executive backgrounds may require bespoke help.”

The Service will also be available to people engaged through the Jobcentre Plus Rapid Response Service (RRS), who are under notice of redundancy or have not yet claimed Jobseeker’s Allowance.