Labour’s welfare chief, Pat McFadden, has pledged that future reforms will not include arbitrary benefit cut targets. McFadden emphasized the importance of focusing on providing work opportunities rather than solely on savings to move past previous divisive issues. He highlighted the need to shift the focus towards creating employment chances for individuals.
Following a backbench rebellion that led to the abandonment of significant cuts to personal independence payments and changes to Universal Credit health top-ups by the government, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has committed to reducing welfare spending and increasing employment rates.
During a visit to a new youth employment hub at Peterborough United’s Weston Homes Stadium, McFadden expressed his belief that welfare reform should prioritize working opportunities over random benefit reduction goals. He emphasized the need for the welfare state to act as a platform for fostering opportunities and emphasized that future reforms will center on work and opportunity.
McFadden also mentioned the government’s plan to double the number of youth employment hubs from approximately 100 to 200. These hubs, like the one in Peterborough, offer support and guidance to young people seeking employment, addressing issues such as housing and health in addition to job assistance.
He stressed the importance of these youth hubs in aiding more young people in finding work, providing a more accessible and comprehensive service compared to traditional Jobcentres. McFadden praised Labour’s youth guarantee initiative, which aims to offer guaranteed paid work placements to individuals out of work or education for 18 months, demonstrating the party’s dedication to supporting young people.
McFadden expressed his confidence in the potential and talent of Britain’s youth, stating the need for more ambitious initiatives to prevent young individuals from becoming reliant on benefits after completing their education. He highlighted the challenge of individuals getting stuck on benefits for extended periods and the government’s commitment to preventing this situation for young people.
The establishment of the new youth hub received positive feedback from Peterborough’s mayor, Paul Bristow, who acknowledged its potential to attract young jobseekers by providing a more welcoming and comprehensive service compared to traditional Jobcentres.
Debbie Cook, the English Football League’s director of community, praised the collaboration between EFL Football Clubs and their charities in empowering individuals within their communities and enhancing opportunities for young people, particularly with the opening of the youth hub at Peterborough United in partnership with Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority during the EFL’s Week of Action.