Work and Pensions written question – answered at on 5 May 2011.
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what representations he has received on the provision of funding from the public purse for the removal of tattoos from benefit claimants.
The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the chief executive of Jobcentre Plus, Darra Singh. I have asked him to provide the hon. Member with the information requested.
Letter from Darra Singh
The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your Parliamentary Question about what representations he has received on the provision of funding from the public purse for the removal of tattoos from benefit claimants. This is something that falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.
Specific details about this type of use of funding are not collated at a national level. Our Management Information would capture such a payment under the broad category of “other payments to remove barriers” but would not show the low level detail of tattoo removal.
However, I am aware of a case in 2002, where a customer was allocated financial support to have tattoos removed. This was made possible as District Managers have the discretion to make funds available to provide additional support to help customers overcome things standing directly in the way of securing employment. This can be used where there are no alternative sources of funding. There is no automatic entitlement, but where an Adviser deems the removal of tattoos as necessary to facilitate the take-up of a specific job offer and the cost represents good value for taxpayer’s money, an award could be made. I envisage this only being in exceptional circumstances.
Yes1 person thinks so
No0 people think not
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