Research and analysis

Sector-based Work Academy Programme: A Quantitative Impact Assessment

This report presents an impact assessment and accompanying cost-benefit analysis of the Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP), a long running programme which was expanded in 2020.

• From: Department for Work and Pensions and Government Social Research Profession
• Published: 26 February 2025

Documents

Sector-based Work Academy Programme: A Quantitative Impact Assessment

Ref: ISBN 978-1-78659-800-4, RR 1085

PDF, 1.55 MB, 65 pages

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

Request an accessible format.

If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email accessible.formats@dwp.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Details

Research background

The Sector-based Work Academy Programme is demand-led and is designed to prevent long-term unemployment by encouraging customers to move sector and fill vacancies in local industries experiencing high demand for staff. This means the programme covers a broad range of sectors. The programme is available to all unemployed customers aged 16 years and above from day one of their claim. Taking part in a Sector-based Work Academy Programme enables participants to gain the relevant skills and work experience required to work in a specific sector.

This report examines the employment outcomes over a two-year period of the cohort of customers who started a Sector-based Work Academy Programme from April 2021 to March 2022.

The report also makes a value for money assessment of the scheme over a two-year period.

Contribution to the evidence base

The Department’s In-House Research Unit (IHRU) published a qualitative review of the Sector-based Work Academy Programme. The research aimed to generate insight into how the programme was being delivered, the value of the support they provide for employers and claimants and emphasised gaining insight on where the programme could be improved. This qualitative case study research formed one element of a wider evaluation and is complemented by this quantitative analysis.

The findings add to the existing published evidence showing the impact and return on investment of the Sector-based Work Academy Programme.

Research value

These findings will be used to inform future delivery of the Sector-based Work Academy Programme.

Published 26 February 2025