JobCenter Essen: Successful steps to integrate the long-term unemployed!

JobCenter Essen: Successful steps to integrate the long-term unemployed!

The Essen.Pro.Participation model project, launched in 2020 by the JobCenter Essen in collaboration with several partners, has now officially ended. The aim of the project was to specifically support long-term unemployed people who receive benefits in accordance with Book II of the Social Code (SGB II) and have health problems. The quality of the measures was ensured with scientific support from the Department of Vocational Education and Vocational Training Research at the University of Duisburg-Essen.

A total of 235 volunteers took part in the program, with approximately 90 percent of them suffering from multiple physical or psychological ailments. They received comprehensive support from specialists and integration coaches. The measures offered included group appointments, workshops and consultations on topics such as exercise, nutrition and mental health. In this context, the participants were able to explore professional fields and test their personal resilience.

Achievements and findings of the project

The participants were subjected to a medical-professional performance assessment twice in order to assess their progress. An analysis of the measures carried out by Prof. Dr. Dieter Münk and Sebastian Ixmeier found that 25 participants found jobs subject to social insurance contributions, while 15 began training or qualifications. Over half of the participants also reported improvements in their health.

The JobCenter Essen plans to integrate the knowledge gained from this project into future work with the long-term unemployed in order to further optimize individual support measures.

Integration into the labor market

These approaches to vocational rehabilitation are crucial. According to the Federal Employment Agency, vocational rehabilitation measures can be tailored specifically to the abilities, interests and inclinations of those affected. Those interested have the opportunity to submit applications for these measures online, which is particularly important if a personal visit to the employment agency is not possible. This flexibility promotes long-term participation in working life, even in the event of health restrictions.

The goal of this rehabilitation remains complete integration into the community. Early interventions are crucial to achieve the desired success. The participation services offered include, among other things, medical rehabilitation, participation in working life and social participation, which is often granted regardless of income or assets.

In this context, the Federal Government’s RehaFutur initiative is important. It aims to modernize vocational training centers and increase the efficiency of rehabilitation processes. External support and scientific support are essential for the successful implementation of these efforts.

In summary, projects like Essen.Pro.Teilhabe play an important role in supporting people with health restrictions. These initiatives help to open up paths to a self-determined life and integration into the labor market, which is of central importance for the people affected. Those interested can find further information about vocational rehabilitation on the website University of Duisburg-Essen, Federal Employment Agency as well as BMAS.