New programme aims to break work barriers

An employment support programme in the Tees Valley has been launched to help thousands of people overcome barriers to work and stay in jobs for the long term.

Connect to Work has gone live with the aim of supporting more than 5000 people across the region into sustainable employment by 2030. 

Backed by £17.5 million from the Department for Work and Pensions, the programme offers personalised, one-to-one support for disabled people, those living with health conditions and residents facing significant barriers to employment.

Delivered by Hartlepool Borough Council as lead partner, the scheme is being rolled out in collaboration with local authorities, Jobcentre Plus, community organisations and employers.

Councillor Lisa Evans, leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority cabinet member for education, employment and skills, said: “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.”

The scheme is designed to support both people who are currently out of work and those already in employment but at risk of dropping out due to health or disability-related challenges.

Participants will work with specialist employment advisers to develop tailored plans based on their strengths, ambitions and individual needs. 

Support includes help with applications and training, confidence-building, job matching, employer introductions and benefits advice, alongside continued coaching once someone enters work.

For those already employed, the programme can provide rapid workplace support, practical adjustments agreed with employers and guidance to help people remain in their roles.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “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 5000 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.”

The initiative is open to people aged 18 and over, with limited access for 16 and 17-year-olds, and is designed to move people into work quickly while providing the backing needed to help them succeed.

To find out more, see here.

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