A NEW Jobcentre Plus was officially opened in Kidderminster earlier today (Thursday, January 27) by the Minister for Employment.

It aims to give jobseekers in and around Kidderminster more access to support to get into work, and will house a team of 22 work coaches

The Crossley Retail Park centre is one of the new temporary sites announced by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) last year.

Minister for Employment Mims Davies MP said: "We know that work brings so much positivity both financially but also from a wellbeing standpoint, which is why we’re boosting our DWP Jobcentre support and Youth Hub provision in every community of the UK, including in Kidderminster and Dudley.

“I was delighted to meet Work Coaches in Kidderminster and Dudley today who are already making a positive difference to the lives of so many individuals every day helping them progress.

“Our Way to Work campaign will accelerate this excellent work, connecting claimants in our jobcentres to opportunities out there right now and working even more closely with employers to fill their vacancies.”

Kidderminster Shuttle: Minister for Employment Mims Davies MP and Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier Minister for Employment Mims Davies MP and Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier

The additional space will accommodate new work coaches recruited in Kidderminster. Simon Evans is one of the new recruits based at the new site.

DWP work coach Simon Evans said:“The new Kidderminster Jobcentre is a modern, vibrant environment for both staff and our customers, which will provide a welcoming place for customers to attend.

“This is going to enhance my job as a DWP work coach, which I enjoy immensely. I love being able to help and support customers and using my experience and training to move them towards the workplace.”

Cluster Jobcentre manager Michael Harris said: "It’s a huge investment in this part of Kidderminster and just a 5-minute walk from the local bus station.

“In addition to 22 Work Coaches there will be other specialist DWP support on site as well as partner organisations and employers. It’s really putting the ‘job’ at the heart of Jobcentre Plus.”