Member of the Senedd for Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd, David Mills MS, visited Llandrindod Wells Job Centre to see the work being undertaken to support local people back into employment and to meet staff who work directly with claimants.

During the visit, Mr Mills was shown around the Job Centre and met work coaches who support and coach claimants as they look to return to employment. He was impressed by the dedication and attitude of staff and their commitment to helping local people find work.

The Job Centre is now based in a building alongside a number of community organisations and assets, bringing a range of services and facilities together under one roof.

Mr Mills discussed with staff how the local Job Centre works with and supports local businesses, as well as the practical support available to people looking to get back into work. Discussions also covered the particular challenges faced by unemployed people living in rural areas, including limited public transport and the difficulty of travelling to employment opportunities further afield.

The issue of fraud in the benefits system was also discussed, with a significant increase in benefits fraud during the Covid-19 restrictions, when face-to-face appointments were suspended and checks and verification processes were relaxed. Criminal gangs took advantage of these weaknesses, contributing to a substantial rise in fraudulent claims.

Mr Mills also discussed the importance of Job Centres maintaining strong relationships with local employers and understanding the needs of small businesses. Many small businesses are currently less likely to take on new staff due to the increasing tax burden through employer National Insurance contributions and high levels of business rates.

Following his visit to Llandrindod Wells Job Centre, David Mills MS said: "It was a pleasure to visit Llandrindod Wells Job Centre, and I was impressed by the dedication and attitude of the staff I met who clearly care about helping claimants back into meaningful employment and are doing valuable work in the local community.

"The visit also highlighted some of the particular challenges facing people looking for work in rural Wales, such as limited public transport links and the reluctance of small businesses to take on new staff due to the increasing tax burden being placed on employers.

"If we want more people to get into work, the Welsh Government needs to do more to relieve the pressure placed on small businesses that are being squeezed by high business rates and rising costs.

“At a time when job vacancies across the UK are at their lowest level for five years, the conditions must be set for Welsh businesses to grow, invest, and hire.”