The proposals would see those on benefits agreeing to action plans to prepare them to return to work, for example by tackling health or debt issues, or attending interviews.
Kate Green, chief executive of the Child Poverty Action Group, said that forthcoming legislation must make it clear that lone parents must not be forced to apply for specific jobs or place their children in childcare. "The Government's direction on welfare reform is seriously flawed," she said.
Alison Garnham, joint chief executive of the Daycare Trust, said lone parents must have access to high quality, affordable childcare and flexible hours if they are to return to work. "The Government must meet lone parents half way. Lone parents may be very keen to prepare for work, but they cannot be expected to undertake activities which exceed the twelve and half hours of free childcare to which they are currently entitled, and the right to work flexibly must be guaranteed," she said.
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