The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has launched a free online service that helps people build a CV, search for jobs and prepare for interviews, and it is available to everyone, not just those claiming benefits. The Work Hub, which was piloted in June, can be accessed from a phone, tablet or computer.
Around 20,000 people have already used its 'Build a CV' tool, while some 16,000 have used an AI-powered Work Assistant that provides personalised support with job searches, applications, interview preparation and career development. The DWP confirmed that people do not need to be receiving Universal Credit or another DWP benefit to use the CV service.
What is the DWP Work Hub?
The Work Hub was launched this summer as a free digital employment service, which the DWP has described as a 'jobcentre in your pocket'. It is designed to help people both get into work and progress once they are employed. The online service provides tools to create CVs designed for modern online recruitment platforms, as well as support to search and apply for jobs, prepare for interviews and find training opportunities.
Its CV builder is designed to help people turn their existing skills, experience and achievements into a professional CV tailored towards the type of jobs they want. The AI Work Assistant can provide personalised guidance covering job applications, interview preparation and career development. The DWP said safeguards have been put in place around the AI service to help ensure responses are appropriate and remain focused on employment support.
Minister praises innovation
Minister for Innovation, Fraud and Data Lilian Greenwood said: "The world of work is changing, so the support we provide must change with it, and the Work Hub is innovation at its finest. In just a few months, around 20,000 people have already used our CV tools to showcase their skills and take important steps towards finding work. This tool is one of the ways we're making sure no one is left behind and I would encourage any jobseeker yet to try it, to give it a go."
The DWP also highlighted the experience of one jobseeker who had struggled to receive responses from employers despite having significant experience and skills. After using the Work Hub CV Builder, he said he began getting more responses and subsequently secured a job. He said: "Before, I was struggling to get a response from the employer, let alone a job. However, upon using the CV builder I saw the response I received increase significantly. It allowed me to convey my skills and experience more effectively, helping me secure a much-needed job after many unsuccessful attempts beforehand."
Additional support, not a replacement
The DWP stressed that its new digital tools are an additional source of employment support rather than a replacement for existing Jobcentre services. Work Coaches will continue to provide tailored face-to-face help through Jobcentres. The department also confirmed that the Work Hub does not change the requirements placed on Universal Credit claimants who are in the Intensive Work Search group.
The Work Hub pilot is continuing to be developed using feedback from people who use the service and performance data.
