Connect to Work

Connect to Work is a voluntary employment support programme introduced by the UK Government as part of the Get Britain Working Strategy. The programme launched at the end of June 2025 and is designed to support over 9,000 people who are currently economically inactive due to health conditions, disabilities or other disadvantages. It helps participants not only secure work, but stay in employment.

The programme has had a strong start in Kent and Medway, with early results showing real impact for residents across the county who face barriers to employment.

In its first full quarter, 305 people have started on the programme – well above the expected profile of 237, delivering 129 percent performance to date. Most importantly, 11 participants have already secured employment locally.

Kent and Medway have now been allocated an additional £400,000 to spend before April 2026, which will allow the programme to support a further 117 people – bringing the total target to 1,407 participants in year one.

To support delivery, a full suite of materials has been produced – including leaflets, posters, waiting room graphics and social media content. Referrals are coming in from every Jobcentre across Kent and Medway, and outreach is underway across all eligibility groups.

Integration with NHS services is progressing well, with the first GP Practice referrals now coming in from Ashford Rural PCN. The team also attended the Local Medical Committee Annual Conference in October, building strong links with surgeries across the region.

Connect to Work also offers a valuable option to businesses in Kent & Medway. The programme could help them recruit talent, add social value and much more, at zero cost.