Member News
A major new programme to help more than 5,000 people in our region overcome barriers to secure work and jobs has been launched.
From today (12 January), Connect to Work will provide personalised, one-to-one support to help disabled people, those living with health conditions and residents facing barriers to work move into a sustainable job quickly – and provide the backing for them to stay there.
The scheme will work at pace to get people into work within around four weeks, with extra support kicking-in around them once they start a job.
It is designed both for people who are economically inactive as well as those already in work but at risk of falling out of employment.
Backed by £17.5million from the Department for Work and Pensions, the programme will run until 2030 and will support more than 5,000 people.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Getting everyone in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool the chance to find a job and keep it is why I’m here. It’s making sure work is secure, rewarding, and right for them.
“We are bringing brilliant companies, employers and health professionals into the heart of this programme so more than 5,000 people get the extra support they need for work.
“When we remove barriers and focus on people’s strengths, we open the door for more of our people to get into work, stay in work and build a future they can rely on.
“That means more money in people’s pockets.”
Connect to Work will be delivered by Hartlepool Borough Council as lead partner, working closely with the region’s other local authorities.
It will see Jobcentre Plus, community care organisations, and local companies on board to ensure support reaches people wherever they are.
People will work directly with specialist Employment Specialists to build a plan around their strengths, ambitions and health needs.
Support will include help with applications and training, confidence-building, employer introductions and job matching, benefits and “better-off-in-work” advice and continued coaching once someone starts work.
For those already employed but struggling because of a disability or health condition, Connect to Work will provide rapid workplace support, practical adjustments agreed with employers and tailored guidance to help people stay in their roles.
Cllr Lisa Evans, Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and TVCA Cabinet Member for Education, Employment and Skills, added: “We know getting into work can be tough and staying in work can be just as challenging when you are dealing with health issues or the pressures life can bring.
“Connect to Work will focus on people’s strengths and makes sure support wraps around the individual, not the other way round.
“By working in partnership across Tees Valley, we can make sure people get the right help at the right time – whether that is a first step into secure work, or the support needed to keep hold of a job.
“The world of work should not leave people behind and I’m excited to see this programme now up and running.”
Connect to Work is available to people aged 18 and over, with some 16 and 17-year-olds able to take part. It is available to those who are disabled, living with health conditions or experiencing significant barriers to employment.
Connect to Work is funded by the UK Government.
To find out more about the programme in the Tees Valley, go to: https://teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/work/connect-to-work/
