Four in 10 welfare-to-work providers say procurement processes have failed to give providers sufficient scope for introducing innovative ways of delivering welfare to work services.

According to research from welfare-to-work trade body The Employment Related Services Association (ERSA), research also reveals that 40% thought government procurement timetables have been difficult. 

ERSA chief executive Kirsty McHugh says: “This is a useful exchange which places the government’s commitment to evaluation and transparency of information firmly in the public arena. 

“ERSA’s membership has always backed the principles of the Work Programme, but our recent survey of ERSA members shows that the speed at which it was conducted has had a range of consequences that need to be taken into consideration by future government procurement exercises. 

“In addition, it would be helpful for the government to publish a statement of intent about future procurement intention to help increase confidence in the market.”