Webinar recording & slides: JobsPlus Year 2 findings: translating place-based employment support

This webinar marks a key milestone in the national evaluation of JobsPlus, presenting Year 2 findings from the full pilot period (2024–2026). It explores how the model has evolved from early implementation to more established delivery, and what this means for policy, commissioning, and future scale‑up. Learning and Work Institute (L&W) is leading the programme working in collaboration with Communities that Work and Institute for Employment Studies (IES), with additional support from MDRC, the US-based research organisation behind the conception of JobsPlus, and nine housing associations.

The webinar, presented by Amy Fox (IES), Rakhee Patel (IES) and Helen Gray (L&W), included a Q&A panel chaired by Naomi Clayton, CEO of IES. Contributions included Jim Riccio (MDRC), offering an international perspective on the model’s design and adaptation, alongside Elizabeth Gerard (L&W) discussing the JobsPlus pilot findings. The programme funders DWP (Jonathan Turner) and YFF (Chris Mitchell) also shared reflections on delivery and priorities for the next phase.

The session highlighted:

• How the JobsPlus model has been adapted and implemented across different local contexts.
• Evidence that the programme is engaging residents who are often under‑represented in mainstream employment support, including those facing complex barriers.
• The importance of recognising non‑linear journeys into employment, where improvements in confidence, wellbeing and job readiness underpins outcomes.
• Key lessons for delivery, including trusted relationships, accessible community hubs, and flexible, personalised support.
• Insights into what enables stronger local delivery, including partnerships, community‑led outreach, and wrap‑around support.
• Reflections on early impact findings.

A recording of the event and presentation slides are available below.