“REVOLUTIONARY”, “unique” and “flagship” are words used by the Government to describe its new work programme.

A new dawn, or a simple rework of two old failed work programmes – the Flexible New Deal and America’s Workfare programme?

The first made millions in profit for private companies, even if they didn’t get people into work. The second, forced people onto full-time work for no payment, sinking them deeper into poverty.

The Jobcentres are no better – I am afraid that the number of staff outnumber the jobs available these days.

Stephanie Finnegan, Eston.