Government's welfare to work scheme begins

The coalition's new work scheme has begun and aims to take one million people off benefits and into jobs over the next two years.

The Work Programme has been described as "the centrepiece of the most sweeping welfare reform for 60 years".

A number of approved providers, mostly private companies, will be paid for each person they get into employment in England, Scotland and Wales.

The scheme replaces employment support currently on offer including the New Deals, Employment Zones and Pathways to Work.

Mark Easton reports.