Connect to Work delivers for thousands more as programme expands
The UK Government reports its Connect to Work programme has helped thousands of disabled people and those with health conditions into employment, with a national rollout by July 2026.
The Government’s Connect to Work programme has supported thousands of disabled people and those with health conditions into work, according to official data published on 10 September. The initiative, launched last year, operates across England and Wales, with local authorities designing tailored support using over £1 billion in Government funding committed during this parliament. Participants receive one-to-one assistance from specialist advisers, meeting in locations convenient to them such as GP surgeries, parks or community hubs, regardless of benefit status.
Latest figures indicate the programme is on track to assist 300,000 people by the end of the decade, following full national rollout in July 2026. It forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to shift from a welfare state to a working state, addressing the 2.7 million people currently out of work due to ill-health. The programme aims to address long-standing barriers faced by disabled people and those with health conditions who previously lacked appropriate employment support.
Connect to Work advisers work individually with participants to identify and remove barriers to work, including health-related challenges. One participant, who had been out of work for 14 years due to mental health issues, reported securing a job interview and passing an exam within six weeks of joining the programme with support from adviser Michelle.
The programme exemplifies devolution, with local areas including mayoral authorities, counties and districts designing delivery models to suit their communities. Essex is highlighted as a leading delivery area, with local partners reporting success in helping residents overcome barriers and move into sustainable employment as part of the wider £3.5 billion employment support package.