Abstract:

Evidence from research completed by Department for Work and Pensions (Brown & Joyce, 2007; Stafford et al., 2007; Dewson et al., 2007) suggests there are some groups who are reluctant to engage with Jobcentre Plus to explore whether they could return to work. Historically, for some of these groups, there has been a perceived expectation that they do not have to obtain employment, often due to difficulties from health conditions, disabilities or child caring responsibilities. Providing support and assistance to these groups through a number of methods was intended as a start to change these perceptions of 'not having to work anymore'. One method is the Work Focused Interview (WFI) where communication and engagement is sought as a start to exploring the circumstances of the person and reviewing whether work is realistic.

However, before this can even be contemplated, individuals have to attend the Jobcentre and in many cases they are reluctant to do so. In order to explain this reluctance and non-engagement it may be useful to consider applying the Psychological Contract Theory. In its application this theory posits the notion that the contract between Government (through Jobcentre Plus) and the claimant has in fact been breached. If the interaction between Jobcentre Plus and the claimant can be considered in terms of a contract, this may be regarded as a useful theory in understanding any lack of engagement. If this is the case, then Psychological Contract (PC) research might usefully inform Jobcentre Plus ensuring continued engagement with these groups and additionally to manage changes to all Psychological Contracts between Jobcentre Plus and those reluctant participants.

Keywords: PSYCHOLOGICAL CONTRACT; VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION; WORK FOCUSED INTERVIEWS

Document Type: Research article