The Province is creating new employment centres which will make it easier to help people find work and provide stability for their families.

The new Employment Program of BC was developed after considerable consultation with stakeholders across B.C. over the past three years and reflects the feedback received regarding the need for better services for those trying to find a job.

The proposed employment centres integrate all of the services currently offered and will ensure quick and easy access through a single door so that people get what they need to get back into the workforce as quickly as possible. No unemployed British Columbian will be left behind, as service providers must ensure that everyone has access to the same services, regardless of where they live.

On March 31, 2011 a Request for Proposals (RFP) is being issued to procure for services. A draft RFP was posted to the BC Bid website in October 2010.

The new centres are scheduled to be opened in April 2012. In 2011/12, the Province will invest $341.2 million in employment services.

The Province inherited six federal employment programs in early 2009 and is now responsible for developing and implementing them, along with four provincial employment programs.

These 10 programs are delivered through over 400 contracts with service providers.

In order to accommodate those with specialized needs, such as people with disabilities, immigrants, Aboriginals and Francophones, services will be available in multiple languages in every community, and through multiple channels. The ministry will also set up an expert advisory panel to monitor how the new model works for these British Columbians.

The ministry held several consultations over the past three years, including six information sessions around the province in November and December 2010 to further help service providers' understanding of the new employment centres' payment structure and financial models.

More information is available by visiting the following: http://www.labourmarketservices.gov.bc.ca/community_organizations/service_providers_business_transformation.html

http://www.bcbid.gov.bc.ca/open.dll/welcome

Contact:

Cindy Rose
Senior Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Social Development
250 387-6490