The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has rolled out a new £80 million programme aimed at helping thousands of people in England and Wales return to the workforce.
This initiative is a major part of the government’s Plan for Change and focuses on tackling economic inactivity, especially for those struggling with mental health issues, disability, or social isolation.
Unlike traditional employment schemes, this plan gives local authorities and regional mayors full control over how the funds are used to support residents.
Focus on Health and Community Support
The scheme, known as the “inactivity trailblazer”, was first introduced in April 2025 and is now being extended due to early success. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all employment services, the trailblazer focuses on individual barriers to employment such as:
- Anxiety and depression
- Social isolation
- Lack of workplace confidence
- Skill gaps
Through peer support groups, confidence-building courses, mental health therapy, and job-readiness training, the initiative creates a holistic support system for job seekers.
Real-Life Impact
One success story includes Aaron, a young man with autism who faced long-term unemployment due to anxiety and bullying.
Thanks to the trailblazer scheme in his local area, Aaron was able to participate in confidence-building sessions and join a supportive peer network, ultimately preparing him for work and even inspiring others in his community.
Funding Breakdown
The £80 million will be distributed across nine areas of England and Wales, focusing on regions with the highest unemployment and economic inactivity rates.
| Region | Funding Allocated |
|---|---|
| Greater London Authority | £20 million |
| York & North Yorkshire | £10 million |
| South Yorkshire | £10 million |
| West Yorkshire | £10 million |
| North East | £10 million |
| Greater Manchester | £10 million |
| Wales | £10 million |
Each region will run custom programmes, including access to therapists, job mentors, life coaches, and employment officers.
Why This Scheme Matters
Recent government data shows that 9.1 million people in the UK are currently out of the workforce. Many of these individuals face complex challenges not addressed by standard job centres or employment support services.
This new DWP scheme is different because:
- It puts decision-making power in local hands
- It addresses root causes of inactivity like poor health
- It integrates mental health support into employment help
According to Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, “For too long, too many people have been locked out of the job market. By investing in local trailblazers, we’re helping people build the confidence and skills they need to thrive.”
The government expects the programme to expand based on results, possibly becoming a permanent part of the UK’s employment support landscape.
By empowering councils and communities, the scheme hopes to reduce reliance on long-term benefits and help individuals become active, confident participants in the workforce.
The DWP’s £80 million trailblazer scheme is a game-changer in tackling long-term unemployment. By prioritising mental health and community-driven support, it promises to bring thousands back into the job market with confidence, dignity, and skills for the future.
FAQs
Who qualifies for this scheme?
People out of work due to mental health, disability, or other long-term barriers—especially in targeted regions.
How is this different from previous job support?
This scheme gives local areas control and includes mental health and wellbeing support alongside job training.
When will it be implemented?
It began in April 2025 and will continue throughout 2026 with expanded funding.