The jobcentre has had its share of detractors over the years and, in some cases, fairly so.

But there’s been a revolutionary change in the way they operate and, on a recent visit to the one in Weymouth, I left genuinely inspired.

All credit must go to the 38 staff, 25 of whom are ‘work coaches’. Their remit is far wider than just finding people to fill vacancies.

“That’s just one side of what we do,” said Business Development Manager James Pidgeon.

As I was shown around, meeting many of the staff, I learnt that the work coach first enquires about the applicant’s personal goals, before matching them to the opportunities available.

Next, they establish the skills needed for a new job. Often, new applicants need help with confidence-building after being out of the workplace for years.

They may require bespoke courses to equip them for specific occupations, like computer training, food handling, customer service or retail and cash experience.

These courses are tailor-made with local providers and colleges, including Weymouth College.

James is confident that the success rate is good. The personal touch does not end there, however.

Work coaches remain on call for clients, even after they’re in work.

I also met the specialist schools’ adviser, who spends his time visiting students and helping 18-25 year olds into work experience.

Interestingly, I found no one against universal credit, the new welfare reform.

Since 2010, those out of work in South Dorset have halved. This is in no small way due to the diligence and hard work of those I met in Weymouth’s jobcentre.