New supported employment pathway opens for people with social care needs

The new route is designed for individuals with learning disabilities, physical disabilities and mental health needs, including those currently supported by local authorities or voluntary and community organisations. 

Connect to Work is a fully funded, national programme that supports disabled people, those with health conditions, and individuals facing complex barriers to employment. It helps residents find work, stay in work, and retain jobs if they are at risk of losing them.  Hampshire County Council has been awarded £18.7million of national funding to help thousands of people into meaningful employment while addressing skills gaps faced by local businesses, bringing a boost to the local economy. 

Councillor Kirsty North, Hampshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Lead Member for Universal Services, said: “This dedicated gateway into Connect to Work is all about ensuring that people with social care needs can access the right support to move into and succeed in employment. 

“We know there are many people who would benefit from this personalised approach, and I would strongly encourage our partners across Hampshire to refer people who are ready to take that next step. This is a real opportunity for some of our residents who may have faced barriers to work in the past to build confidence, develop skills and move into meaningful, long-term work with ongoing support. 

“We are also keen to hear from employers who want to be part of this programme – offering inclusive opportunities while helping to build a strong, diverse and skilled local workforce.” 

This specialist Social Care element of the programme is being delivered in partnership with Shaw Trust, a leading employment charity, who will work with participants to deliver expert, tailored support into lasting jobs.  

The programme offers: 
- Individualised, one-to-one support tailored to each participant
- Up to 12 months of personalised support
- In-work support for participants and employers
- Ongoing support to secure sustainable, long-term employment

To meet the eligibility criteria for Connect to Work, people need to be over 18 years old, have the right to live and work in England & Wales and wish to secure employment. 

To register interest, please visit: www.prosperityhampshire.org.uk/connect-to-work