Unemployed could lose 26 weeks' benefits if they turn down training courses

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The unemployed may see their benefits axed for up to six months if they refuse to attend training courses designed to help them back into work.

A planned shake-up would impose a 'three strikes' policy, with a job-seekers' first refusal leading to payments being suspended for two weeks.

A second refusal would result in benefits cut for four weeks, while turning down a third offer may lead to the claimant losing their dole for 26 weeks.

Work and Pensions Secretary James Purnell, who unveiled the plans yesterday, said the take-up of vocational training should turn from a 'should do' into a 'must do'.

'We want to give people the help they need to get back on their own two feet,' he added.

'But it's a two-way responsibility - that's why we want to make sure that everyone who needs training is required to do it as part of their benefit.'

He said the plans would be adopted nationwide if this autumn's pilot scheme is successful and claimed that single parents could also be given benefit top-ups to encourage them to undertake training before their child turns seven.