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Connect to Work

Struggling to find or stay in work due to a disability, a long-term health condition, or other barrier?

Connect to Work can help.

Connect to Work is a UK government-funded programme supporting people who face barriers to employment. It helps people with disabilities, health conditions, or complex needs to access and sustain paid work. Delivered in partnership with local authorities and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the programme focuses on real jobs and long-term success, not just short-term training.

Connect to Work provides personalised, one-to-one support tailored to your needs and goals.

We can help you to:

  • Find paid employment, not just voluntary work
  • Build confidence and skills for work
  • Stay in work with ongoing support
  • Access joined-up help from health or social care services where needed

The programme is for people who may need extra support to find or keep a job, including:

  • People with physical or mental health conditions
  • People with learning disabilities or autism
  • Those with complex support needs
  • People who have been out of work long-term or at risk of losing their job.

Participation is voluntary, and referrals are usually made through:

  • Jobcentres
  • Local authorities
  • Health services
  • Voluntary organisations

What you can expect

Move into paid employment
Get support to find a job that matches your skills, interests and goals, focusing on real, paid work opportunities.
Stay in work and progress
Receive ongoing support once you’re in a job, helping you to build confidence, develop skills and progress in your role over time.
Manage your health alongside work
Access tailored support to help you balance your job with your health or wellbeing, so work feels sustainable and manageable.
Reduce the risk of job loss
Get early support if challenges arise, helping you to stay in work and avoid losing your job due to health or other barriers.

The two main approaches:

Individual Placement and Support (IPS)

  • For people with health-related barriers to work
  • Works closely with mental health and clinical services
  • Focuses on quickly finding the right job and supporting you in work

Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF)

  • For people with complex or long-term needs, including learning disabilities and autism
  • Provides structured, hands-on support
  • Includes long-term coaching in the workplace

Our Approach

The programme is built around four key principles:

  • Person-centred – your goals come first
  • Work-focused – aiming for real, paid jobs
  • Flexible – support changes as your needs change
  • Integrated – working with health and care services where needed

If you think Connect to Work could help you or someone you support, we’re here to help.

Our team will guide you through the process and make sure you get the right support for your needs.

Contact the team today