Employment prospects in Watford
Having visited the Job Centre in Watford many times, I have seen the day-to-day situation of the many unemployed people in Watford and learnt a lot about it. It concerns me greatly that while the number of those on the dole is not high, once you include all others in the area who are dependent on the state in one way or another, we see around 10% of the working age population are unemployed. This is not good for anyone, not least those who become permanently beholden to state handouts. It is one of the greatest barriers to social mobility and a vicious poverty trap. It must end.
However, youth enemployment has hit a record high and we face the difficult task ahead of tackling it. If elected, we will do all we can to get those who can work back into employment with measures such as long-term community projects that allow people to get back into a working environment. Those who can work but refuse to do so will face tough sanctions. It is not fair for those who are perfectly capable of working to live off the hard work of others without making any contribution.
Plans to get people into work will also be coupled with changes of the benefit and tax credit system particularly the couple penalty in the tax system that will make it easier and more effective for many people to go back to work.
On a local level I have taken proactive steps in tackling unemployment here in Watford by setting up a Job Club. Where it is possible, we have helped many people in the search for work, giving advice on writing CVs and helping them complete job applications. Wwe have also help young people boost their skills with our workexperience programme.
