The way the Job Centre operated during the coronavirus lockdown could have long-lasting effects.

Bosses there said that the way they worked through phone and video calls, email and text, rather than traditional meetings in person, wa a success.

Now they are asking people for more ideas about how to change their services.

Ralph Peake MHK, the politician with responsibility for social security, said: ’Throughout lockdown the Job Centre team were able to deliver services in a completely new way, interacting with clients remotely in place of more formal face-to-face meetings.

’In adapting to remote working, the team found they were able to maintain the full range of Job Centre services and engage in a far more flexible way, responding effectively to the needs of individual clients.

’To help us develop services further, a short survey is under way to better understand the needs of clients now and into the future. I would encourage people to get involved and help us shape and develop our provision to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients’ employment prospects.’

Remote contact will not suit everyone and the Job Centre team will continue to offer appointments to those who prefer face-to-face communication.

These meetings will be held at the Job Centre’s base in Douglas or in Ramsey Town Hall.

The Job Centre has recently moved from Nivison House in Prospect Hill, Douglas, to Markwell House in Market Street.

This change will bring both the Job Centre and benefit administration teams into one building, and enable financial support and recruitment advice and guidance to be delivered in the same place.

The survey, which may be downloaded, can be found by visiting the Isle of Man Government’s online consultation hub at consult.gov.im

A paper version of the consultation can be requested via [email protected], or by calling 687014.

The process will run for two weeks and conclude on July 30.