16 September 2004 - Modernisation takes another step forward
Modernisation of the Department for Work and Pensions took another step forward today with the announcement of its third phase of efficiency improvements. This forms part of a four year programme to focus services around customer need which enables a reduction in the DWP workforce by 30,000.
The key points:
- Locations unveiled for 81 Jobcentre Plus benefit processing centres – including five sites formerly used by The Pension Service. Previously this work had been done in a large number of social security offices and jobcentres;
- 37 sites are named for closure as a direct consequence of centralisation. Not all jobs will go with many transferring elsewhere. In those sites not named for closure, there is other continued Jobcentre Plus activity and their future will be determined in the normal way as part of the rollout of the Jobcentre Plus network;
- Contact Centre services delivered through a network of 23 Jobcentre Plus Direct sites - including one site formerly used by The Pension Service - with work moving away from a number of existing locations and resulting in the closure of three sites in Provan, Banbury and Milton Keynes;
- In line with the Lyons Review, which recommended relocating some public sector activities away from London and the south east, Employer Direct contact centres are reduced from 11 to nine, with closures in Portsmouth and Bromley;
- Continuation of ongoing programme of closing old-style jobcentre and social security offices in favour of a network of modern, improved customer-friendly offices.
Alan Johnson, Secretary of State said:
“The changes I am announcing today are the latest component of our continuing modernisation programme that will lead to more efficient and effective services for our customers and release resources to the front line.
“Benefit processing work will be moved to a smaller number of Jobcentre Plus sites which means that 37 sites will cease to be viable and will close altogether as a direct consequence of centralisation. We are continuing to press ahead with our wider plans for rolling out the Jobcentre Plus network across the country by 2006.
“Staff in all affected sites are being briefed by their managers today. We continue to consult with the trade unions and have already outlined to them our policy proposals for handling these changes.”
Richard Mottram, Permanent Secretary said:
“DWP is working towards one of the biggest change programmes in Europe. Change is always unsettling for staff and we are keeping people up to date with decisions as they are made.
“We will be doing everything we can to help the staff affected through this difficult process. We will provide a wide range of support for staff including using Jobcentre Plus services as appropriate.”
Notes for editors
- A written statement from Alan Johnson, including a list of sites affected, has been laid in the House.
- Contact centres deal with customer queries by phone.
- Benefit processing centres assess claims rather than dealing with customers face to face.
Press office: 020 7238 0866
Public enquiries: 020 7712 2171
Website: www.dwp.gov.uk