What is Connect to Work?
- A free, intensive employment support service helping people with various barriers (disabilities, health issues, homelessness, care experience, etc.) to get into work.
- Provides one-on-one support from an Employment Specialist to find a job and stay employed for up to 12 months.
Who is eligible?
- Those aged 18+ (exceptions for 16-17) in England.
- Those with a right to live and work in the UK.
- Individuals facing barriers such as disabilities, health conditions, being a carer, care leaver, refugee, or ex-offender.
- Individuals not currently on another Department for Work and Pensions intensive programme (such as Restart).
- For full eligibility and suitability information, click here.
What support is provided?
- Job Matching: Finding roles that fit your skills and goals.
- Barrier Removal: Helping overcome challenges.
- Employer Engagement: Working with employers to create suitable roles.
- Ongoing Support: Staying in touch after you start work.
Before you start work, the Employment Specialist will:
- Help you apply for jobs and prepare for your job interview.
- Work with you and employers to get the right match for you.
- Help you access any benefits advice relating to work.
When you start work, the Employment Specialist will:
- Give you support until you feel confident to do the job on your own.
- Help if there are any problems at work.
How soon until I can start?
After you’ve completed your application and our team have made sure this is the right pathway for you, we’ll arrange a friendly conversation at a time that works for you, we aim to do this within five working days.
How is Connect to Work different to Access to Work?
- Connect to Work: Focuses on finding and keeping the job through coaching and placement.
- Access to Work: Is a separate grant that pays for practical support or equipment needed because of a disability (e.g., interpreters, adapted equipment, travel help).
- You can potentially use both: Connect to Work helps you get the job, and Access to Work helps fund the specific workplace adjustments.
- Find out more about Access to Work at www.gov.uk/access-to-work
