As part of the Governments Get Britain Working strategy, Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Councils have been awarded a combined £10.7 million to deliver the Connect to Work programme locally.

Connect to Work is a Supported Employment programme offering one-to-one assistance for people with disabilities and long-term health conditions to help them return to work. The programme supports local residents who face challenges entering and remaining in employment.

Councillor Rob Wilson, Shropshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Transport and Economic Growth, said

“Shropshire Council warmly welcomes the opportunity to deliver the Connect to Work programme. We are thrilled to be working alongside Herefordshire and Telford and Wrekin Councils, and we hope Connect to Work can really benefit local residents”.

Over the next five years, Connect to Work will support nearly 2700 people with disabilities including those living with long-term health conditions and complex barrier to employment. Local organisations will deliver tailored support based on individual needs.

Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment & Skills, said:

“We are delighted that the Connect to Work programme has launched – helping people break down those barriers which hinder them from finding employment and give them a foothold in the workplace, as well as supporting those with a disability or additional needs to find and sustain employment.

“We’re pleased to be working in partnership with organisations across the region to deliver this scheme and make a difference for our residents to help them achieve their employment goals.

Connect to Work services in Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin areas are now live. To learn more or to apply for support, please visit www.shropshire.gov.uk/economic-growth/connect-to-work/

If you are a local business interested in this programme, please visit https://www.investinshropshire.co.uk/relocating-and-investing/business-support/connect-to-work/ for further information.

Connect to Work services in Herefordshire will be live from December. Councillor Graham Biggs, Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth at Herefordshire Council, said:

 “This is a great new programme to support people who are living with disabilities or who have long-term health conditions, and those who have complex barriers to working.

“We welcome this investment coming into Herefordshire, the programme is a step forward in our commitment to our ambitions for inclusive growth and opportunity for all.

“By focusing on those who face the greatest barriers to employment, we are not only helping individuals transform their lives but also strengthening our communities and local economy.”