The sector-based work academy programme (SWAP or SBWA) is a UK government scheme launched in 2013, which is intended to help create a skilled workforce in a business sector. Sector-based work academies help prepare people receiving unemployment benefits to apply for jobs in a new or different area of work. Work placements take place, which are designed to meet the business's immediate and future recruitment needs as well as to recruit a workforce with the right skills to sustain and grow the company's business. SWAP is administered by Jobcentre Plus and available in England and Scotland.[1] A sector-based work academy can last for up to 6 weeks.
Placements have 3 main components:
The scheme is a government workfare programme.
In Scotland the programme is funded through the Scottish government or other partner organisations. A similar programme is available through the Welsh government’s Employability Skills Programme for applicants in Wales.[1]