An MP has demanded Government set out what outreach work will remain in Shipley when the Jobcentre closes as part of the nationwide reorganisation.
The Wainman Street office is one of many across the country facing closure after Government claim needs have changed and many people are claiming benefits on line and no longer need face to face services.
Shipley MP Philip Davies, who campaigned to keep the Shipley site, was previously assured by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) some outreach work would remain in the constituency when the Jobcentre closed.
Speaking in the Commons during Work and Pensions Questions he said: “The Secretary of State has already made clear that when the Jobcentre closes in Shipley, outreach work will still be carried out by the Jobcentre in the constituency. Can he confirm what he has in mind, when the specific proposals will be announced and what consultation he intends to do in the local community in order to ensure that they meet the needs of my constituents?”
Employment minister Damian Hinds said: “Outreach is a vital front facing service to claimants across a whole range of employability and related service s but needs to be tailored to the needs of each area and DWP is looking at partnerships with organisation in the Shipley constituency, including with the local authority and of course we will be working with his constituents and happy to work with him to ensure those needs are met..
No redundancies are expected with staff being offered jobs in other local Jobcentres.