The back to work allowance was introduced in September 1993 as part of my Department's programme of initiatives designed to assist the long-term unemployed to return to the active labour force. The primary purpose of the scheme is to encourage people who have been long-term unemployed to test employment or self-employment options and regain a foothold in the labour market while retaining some financial security for a year or four year period.
It is my Department's policy to facilitate potential recipients who are interested in the self-employment option in every way possible. Such applicants are encouraged to carry out any preparatory work e.g. business planning, market research, training, registration for tax, preparation of accounts, etc., before beginning work. The purpose of this is to ensure that when they commence participation in the scheme they will be in a position to begin trading immediately, having already completed all the necessary preparatory work. This will enable them to maximise the period of financial support available under the scheme.
In order to reach those who have not worked for a long time, my Department will shortly introduce a supplementary back to work allowance scheme for the very long-term unemployed. In addition to the normal benefits of the back to work allowance this will allow employees to undergo a period of training with a potential employer for six weeks prior to actually working. An allowance of £35 per week will be paid to employees during that time in addition to their normal unemployment payment. Following this period they can progress onto the normal back to work scheme for three years.
FÁS also operates a "Work Place" work experience programme. This provides up to five weeks placement with employers in the private and public sector and it is targeted at persons who are six months or more on the live register.
