Review may close four job centres

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Four Jobcentre Plus offices in Wales could be closed after a review by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).

People signing on in Amlwch, Anglesey, have been handed a letter asking for their views on the subject.

Other offices under review are Chepstow in Monmouthshire, Penarth in the Vale of Glamorgan and Porthcawl in Bridgend.

A DWP spokesman said the aim was to ensure local people received the fullest service possible for the best value for money.

Amlwch needs its own job centre especially in view of the uncertain future of both Wylfa and Anglesey Aluminium Dr Phillip Bell, former claimant

Dr Phillip Bell, who has been a claimant at Amlwch, said he was appalled at any plan to cut services which could lead to people having to travel distances to sign on.

'The future'

"Amlwch needs its own job centre especially in view of the uncertain future of both Wylfa (power station) and Anglesey Aluminium, because a lot of workers there live in this area," said Dr Bell, a sociologist.

"As it happens I signed off this morning because I've got a new job but how on earth are people going to be able to afford to travel to sign on," he added.

Dr Bell said he was surprised the consultation period for the changes was so short, and that no public meetings had been called.

"It is not just for now but for the whole of the population of the Amlwch area who may at sometime in the future find it necessary to use the facilities of Amlwch jobcentre," he added.

A DWP spokesperson confirmed services at four offices were currently under review.

Part of the reason for the review is the services now available over the phone and computer.

"This is to ensure local people in each of those areas receive the fullest service that Jobcentre Plus can provide, while taxpayers get the best value for money," said the spokesperson.

"Customers, local MPs, assembly members and other stakeholders are being consulted over a six week period ending 5 September, and all views will be taken into account before a final decision is made."