By James Rodger

Copyright birminghammail

The Department for Work and Pensions, or DWP, has announced an injection of mental health and peer support funding to help people get back into work. The DWP says local areas will get an eye-watering and jaw-dropping £80 million funding boost. Across the country, thousands more people will be helped back towards employment through the new package. Benefits claimants will get confidence building, social support and mental health support. Labour Party Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden said: ” For too long too many people have been locked out of the job market, which fails them and fails our economy. READ MORE State pensioners getting free £150 separate to Winter Fuel Payment this week “That is why we are doing things differently – putting local leaders in the driving seat so the right support goes to their community. “By further investing in our trailblazers we’re helping people who were previously underserved or overlooked to build the confidence and skills they need to thrive.” Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: ” The UK Government is working with the Welsh Government and others to help people into employment. We know that work benefits people, giving them financial independence and improving their wellbeing. “It is fantastic news that our Trailblazer scheme is being extended and backed with significant funding so it unlocks many more opportunities for people across Wales, setting them up for success.” Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnerships for Wales, Jack Sargeant said: ” This vital funding boost will make a real difference to communities in Wales, where we’re seeing innovative approaches tailored to local needs already making an impact. “Welsh trailblazers are proving that when we combine employment support with health services and skills training, we can help people overcome the complex barriers they face. This investment reinforces our commitment to ensuring people in Wales receive the right support at the right time tailored to their circumstances.” South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: ” South Yorkshire has a proud industrial heritage that shaped our communities and powered progress far beyond our borders. But the legacy of industrial decline left behind deep-rooted challenges. For too long, poor health, low skills, and limited opportunity have held too many people back. That’s not good enough, and we’re changing it. “I’m proud that we’ve secured another year of funding for the Economic Trailblazer. It’s a vital part of our nationally recognised Pathways to Work programme, which is helping thousands of people across South Yorkshire into good, secure jobs. “We’re building a South Yorkshire where everyone can stay near and go far, putting people and employers at the heart of everything we do – creating opportunity, transforming lives, and strengthening communities. Together, we’re making change happen.” Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: ” This support really matters for people here in West Yorkshire, helping us to break down barriers to work and put more money in people’s pockets. “Through our Healthy Working Life programme, we’re helping those who’ve been out of work to rebuild their confidence, get the right support, and take that next step towards a good job. “Everyone deserves a fair chance to flourish, and this vital investment is giving people the skills and the support that they need to contribute to a stronger, brighter economy.”