What is Connect to Work?

Connect to Work is a voluntary programme funded by the UK Government, designed to help people overcome barriers to employment.

If you are living with a disability, managing a health condition, or facing complex challenges, we are here to support you into work and help you stay there.

If you are already employed but worried about losing your job, Connect to Work can provide tailored support to help you keep your role and progress in your career.

Our approach is based on the proven Supported Employment model:  place, train and maintain. This means we work with you to:

  • Understand your skills and aspirations.
  • Connect you with local employers.
  • Provide personalised training and ongoing support once you start work.
  • Offer self-employment advice and guidance, if relevant to you.

We also provide advice and support for employers to help keep employees in-work.

Into Work Advice Service delivers Connect to Work in Cardiff.

What support will you receive?

Connect to Work gives you a dedicated Employment Specialist to guide you every step of the way. Support includes:

  • A personalised action plan and vocational profiling.
  • Understand your strengths and skills
  • Build confidence
  • Search for the right jobs for you
  • Prepare for interviews
  • Start and stay in work
  • Get the correct support from your employer
  • Access to a wide network of employers.
  • Travel planning
  • Ongoing in-work support and career development.

Who can get support?

You may be able to join Connect to Work if you:

  • Are aged 18 or over
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Live in the Cardiff
  • Are not currently in paid work, or at risk of dropping out because your needs are not being met
  • Need extra support to find or keep a job
  • You are not already participating in another government-funded employment programme

Have barriers to work because you are living with a disability, long-term health condition or are facing other challenges. Including:

  • Carers and ex-carers
  • People with experience of the criminal justice system
  • Homeless individuals
  • Former members of the Armed Forces and their partners
  • People affected by substance dependency
  • Care leavers and care-experienced young people
  • Refugees and those on resettlement schemes.
  • Survivors of domestic abuse or modern slavery
  • Young people at risk of serious violence

How does Connect to Work support employers?

Connect to Work helps employers recruit, develop and retain talented individuals who may face barriers to employment due to health conditions, disabilities, or other challenges.

Our employment specialists will help you find the best candidates and provide hands-on support and guidance when employees start – including understanding any reasonable adjustments needed. We will also stay in regular contact, so you’re never on your own.

Why get involved with Connect to Work?

  • Access to a wider talent pool
  • Reduced recruitment costs
  • Ongoing in-work support
  • Advice on workplace adjustments
  • Help for existing staff to stay in employment
  • Boost your reputation as an inclusive employer