One to One Support

What is Connect to Work?

Connect to Work is a free and voluntary programme funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It’s designed to support residents who face health challenges, disabilities, or other barriers to employment — helping you move into meaningful, paid work that suits your needs and goals.

What We Offer

  • Personalised Support
    You’ll get one-to-one help from a trained Employment Specialist who focuses on your strengths and ambitions.
  • Local Delivery
    The programme is run by your local council — including Barking & Dagenham, Bexley, Bromley, Enfield, Greenwich, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, and Waltham Forest.
  • Proven Approach
    We use a “place, train and maintain” model — helping you find a job quickly, get the training you need, and stay in work long-term.
  • No Need to Be ‘Job Ready’
    If you’re motivated to work, we’re here to help — even if you’re not sure where to start.

Who Can Join?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Have a disability or long-term health condition (no formal diagnosis needed)
  • Are not currently working and want to find a job
  • Are working but struggling to stay in work due to health or personal challenges
  • Face complex barriers to employment and belong to one of the following groups:

Disadvantaged Groups We Support

  • Ex-offenders
  • Carers and former carers
  • People who are homeless or have experienced homelessness
  • Veterans, reservists, and Armed Forces families
  • Those recovering from drug or alcohol dependency
  • Care-experienced young people and care leavers
  • Refugees, resettled Afghans, and those on the Ukrainian scheme
  • Survivors of domestic abuse
  • Young people at risk of serious violence
  • Victims of modern slavery

What Support Will You Receive?

Your Employment Specialist will guide you every step of the way with:

  • Engagement
    Building trust, understanding your needs, and advocating for you
  • Vocational Profiling
    Discovering your strengths, goals, and support needs
  • Employer Engagement
    Helping you search for jobs and connect with employers who match your profile
  • Job Matching
    Finding meaningful, paid work that suits you
  • Ongoing Support
    Coaching, workplace adjustments, and career planning — even after you start your job

How Do I Enquire?

Complete the below expression of interest and one of our Employment Specialists will contact you to discuss the programme:

Ready to explore employment support? Start by registering your interest now.