Opinions sought on Island's Job centre services

How do you think Job Centre services on Island could be improved?

A government survey has been launched asking for residents' views on the matter with hopes the feedback will help shape the employment support system for the future.

Officials say the success of working with clients during lockdown through phone and video calls, email and text, rather than traditional meetings in person, has led to a shift in approach.

Member of the Treasury with responsibility for Social Security, Ralph Peake MHK, says: "In adapting to remote working, the team found they were able to maintain the full range of Job Centre services and engage in a far more flexible way, responding effectively to the needs of individual clients.

"To help us develop services further, a short survey is under way to better understand the needs of clients now and into the future."

The Job Centre team will continue to offer appointments to those who prefer face-to-face communication - these meetings will be held at the Job Centre’s new base at Markwell House in Douglas or in Ramsey Town Hall.

Those interested in giving their thoughts on the issue have until Thursday, July 30, to do so - the survey is available on the online government consultation hub, or paper copies can be requested by e-mailing treasury@gov.im or calling 687 014.