Work Programme Evaluation: Findings from the first phase of qualitative research on programme delivery

This report presents preliminary findings based on the first phase of qualitative research forming part of the official evaluation of the Work Programme.

The Work Programme is a major, integrated welfare-to-work measure introduced nationally in June 2011, targeted at longer-term unemployed people, and providing support for up to two years to help them into sustainable work.

The programme is delivered through a network of prime providers and subcontractors, operating under a payment-by-results regime, with considerable freedom to develop innovative provision for the individuals they support.

The evaluation, over the period 2011-15, examines the way in which the Work Programme is commissioned, how it is delivered and what the experience and outcomes are for participants.

This report focuses on programme delivery, looking at the experiences of staff and participants. Initial findings from the parallel commissioning strand was published in 2013.