Labour Department enhances Work Trial Scheme

     The Labour Department enhanced the Work Trial Scheme (WTS) today (May 1) to strengthen the assistance for job seekers having difficulties in finding jobs. The WTS arranges for job seekers to undergo one-month work trials with participating organisations so as to enhance their employability.

     The scope of the WTS has been expanded with immediate effect to cover part-time posts to meet the needs of job seekers and the employment market. The amount of work trial allowance payable to work trial participants has also been raised. On completion of the one-month (30 days) full-time work trial, the allowance payable to participants is raised from a maximum of $7,600 to $8,300 while the allowance for part-time work trial participants is calculated at $49 per hour. Of the allowance granted, $500 is contributed by the participating organisation that offers the work trial opportunity.

     Participating organisations are encouraged to offer employment to work trial participants after completion of the work trial.

     Details of the programme are available from the WTS webpage (www.jobs.gov.hk/en/info/wts) or the WTS Coordinating Office at 2152 2090.