The new Jobcentre Plus Office in Watford has been officially opened by the Permanent Secretary of the Department for Work and Pensions, Leigh Lewis, giving local people access to this innovative service for the first time.
 
Leigh was met by Pat Hughes, Field Director for the East of England and given a tour of the Jobcentre Plus site. Leigh also met with customers, providers and local business partners before moving on to tour the Benefit Delivery Centre based on the site. There was also a question and answer session with staff from Watford Jobcentre Plus.

Following this, Leigh was asked to present the “Positive Connections” staff awards – given to staff who have made a significant impact to the Incapacity Benefit customer agenda over the past year.

Leigh Lewis said: “I am delighted to be opening this brand new office here in Watford and to see the enthusiasm and commitment of our staff. I have been particularly impressed with the partnership working that is taking place here which will benefit those customers who are currently claiming Incapacity Benefit.”

The day ended with further awards being presented to local individuals who had either overcome their own personal disability and  returned to work, or companies that have employed people with a health condition or disability.