UK DWP expands Support Conversations to 33 Jobcentres for 40,000 claimants

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is rolling out its voluntary "Support Conversations" programme to a total of 33 Jobcentres across Great Britain. The expansion will provide up to 40,000 out‑of‑work benefit claimants – primarily disabled people and those with health conditions – with hour‑long, one‑to‑one sessions.

The sessions take a holistic approach, helping claimants identify support for health, debt, skills, employment, rehabilitation and housing. They are delivered by healthcare professionals, Pathways to Work advisers and disability employment advisers. The scheme is part of a £3.5 billion government investment aimed at moving disabled people into work. Minister for Employment Dame Diana Johnson said the aim is to “help more people into good work”. The rollout follows a pilot at six sites that reported participants feeling “listened to” and “supported”.