More than 17 per cent who lost benefits in Flanders return to work
More than 17 per cent of people in Flanders who lost or are due to lose their unemployment benefits in January and February had already returned to work by the end of January. The figures come from the Flemish employment agency VDAB and were shared by employers’ organisation Voka and various sector federations.
In total, nearly 5,000 people in Flanders are set to lose their unemployment benefits during January and February, in what is being referred to as the first wave. Of these, 3,626 are considered within reach of the labour market. According to VDAB data, 856 of them (23 per cent) were already in employment by the end of January.
The figures vary by age and employment history. Among those under 25, 32 per cent had found work. Even among people who had been unemployed for 20 years or more, 17 per cent had secured jobs.
However, the transition to work remains particularly challenging for a significant group. For 1,355 people who have lost or are at risk of losing their benefits in January and February, the step into employment is considered too great.
Overall, 17.2 per cent of those affected have found work. "Finding a job after a long period of unemployment? It is possible," says Voka and the sector organisations. "Job seekers who are willing and able to work will be welcomed and trained in our companies," said Voka CEO Frank Beckx.
Closer cooperation
The VDAB, Flemish Employment minister Zuhal Demir (N-VA) and employers have pledged to intensify their cooperation in order to help more people into work. A declaration of commitment will be signed to that effect.
Demir described the initial results as encouraging. "The limitation of unemployment over time is proving its value," she said. "The federal government has made the right and courageous choice in this regard. But this is just the beginning. If we want to turn these initial figures into a structural success story, everyone needs to make an extra effort."
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO LAURIE DIEFFEMBACQ
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