A SCHEME which started in Barnsley and aims to get residents back into work is set to be rolled out across the entire country, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall revealed yesterday.

The Pathways to Work Commission report was published by Barnsley Council last July with Ms Kendall in attendance to hear more about the scheme.

It took evidence from employers, educators and experts and spoke with 750 locals who have been affected by economic inactivity.

The government revealed yesterday a new £338m investment into its Connect to Work programme which will deliver localised and tailored support to get people back into work.

South Yorkshire is set to receive up to £35.3m of that funding to help get almost 10,000 people back into work.

The scheme provides intensive, personalised help including individual coaching from employment specialists, job matching services, and ongoing support for both participants and employers to ensure sustainable employment outcomes.

Barnsley North MP Dan Jarvis praised the council for their innovative work in the scheme which will now be rolled out across the country.

He told the Chronicle: “It’s great to see that the work of Barnsley’s Pathways to Work Commission has shaped national policy.

“We found that 70 per cent of people on welfare benefits in Barnsley wanted to work - but unfortunately the system didn’t work for them.

“Unlike the Conservatives, who were content to write people off and trap them in a cycle of benefits, Labour is taking a people-centred approach.

“The scheme is voluntary - people choose to take part - and it’s tailored to each individual, with personal advisors helping them set career goals, tackle challenges, and connect with employers.

“The Labour government isn’t giving up on sick and disabled people who want to work.

“We’re investing £35.3m to support nearly 10,000 people across South Yorkshire into employment, breaking down barriers to opportunity and boosting living standards.”

South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard reiterated Dan’s remarks.

He added: “It’s not just about wages - it’s about dignity, pride and the security that comes from knowing you can support yourself and your family.

“Right now, more than 140,000 people across South Yorkshire aren’t in work.

“But many of those people desperately want to have a job, want to provide for their families, and contribute to the future of our communities.

“Which is why I’m proud that South Yorkshire is one of the areas across England and Wales delivering Connect to Work.

“South Yorkshire’s at the forefront of tackling these challenges nationally, and we’re increasingly a model for other places across the country.”