THE jobs front line in the north and north-east has been boosted by almost 150 new work coaches at the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).

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Part of a nationwide increase in work coach numbers, the 144 earmarked for the north will form part of a 718-strong cadre across Scotland

The DWP have hailed the move as helping more jobseekers get personalised support to help them find their next role, or upskill for expanding sectors.

With 10,000 new work coaches now supporting people around the Britain, the UK government has stated it remains on track to meet its pledge of 13,500 extra work coaches by the end of March.

Minister for Employment Mims Davies said: “This is a hugely significant milestone in our recruitment drive. We have now recruited 10,000 new work coaches, 718 of which are in Scotland.

“They will be at the heart of our bold and ambitious Plan for Jobs, with their expertise and guidance crucial in supporting Scottish jobseekers in retraining, upskilling or re-entering the workplace as we build back better from the pandemic.”

Throughout the pandemic, work coaches have been providing online support, continuing to help jobseekers build their skills and find new jobs as some sectors have continued to recruit.

Ahead of restrictions easing, the DWP is investing in new, temporary jobcentres for the new recruits, making sure support is accessible.

UK government Minister for Scotland, Iain Stewart said: "It is great news we have reached this significant milestone.

"The 718 new work coaches in Scotland will play a key role in supporting jobseekers as they retrain, upskill or re-enter the workplace.

“We have made every effort to support jobs in Scotland throughout the pandemic with UK government schemes such as furlough, support for the self-employed and business loans.

“And we have an ambitious vision for the future. This is part of the UK government’s Plan for Jobs through which billions of pounds have been invested to protect, support and create employment."