Connect to Work programme achieves successful first year
A Marches-wide supported employment programme has helped many individuals into sustainable employment and local businesses to recruit motivated staff during its first year.
Connect to Work was launched as part of the Government’s Get Britain Working strategy in 2025 and Telford & Wrekin, Shropshire and Herefordshire Councils were awarded a combined £10.7 million to deliver the programme locally.
Administered by Shropshire Council and delivered locally by Telford & Wrekin Council's Job Box team, the programme responds to health-related economic inactivity in the UK.
Around 1.9 million people want to work but are not in the labour market, often due to health or disability, and the programme helps people facing significant obstacles into employment secure paid work and build confidence, independence and lasting careers.
Barriers can include physical or mental disabilities, chronic health conditions or other factors.
The programme also partners with social prescribers, autism hubs, GP practices, and other support organisations to promote opportunities and works with local employers to match candidates to roles and provide comprehensive support during recruitment and placement.
Since its launch in October 2025, Connect to Work has achieved outstanding results across Telford and Wrekin, Shropshire and Herefordshire.
The scheme has enrolled many individuals, meeting Department for Work and Pensions targets, and has delivered successful job outcomes by helping people into paid employment which exceed Government expectations.
Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment & Skills, said:
“In Telford and Wrekin we are committed to helping people find work through our Job Box service and providing help and support to those who need it the most.
“It’s pleasing to see that the Connect to Work programme is having such a positive impact - helping people to break down barriers which hinder them from finding employment and giving them a firm foothold in the workplace - as well as supporting those with a disability or additional needs to find and sustain employment.
“We’re pleased to be working in partnership with local authorities across the region to deliver this programme and make a difference for our residents, helping them to achieve their employment goals.”
For those who have received support from the programme to return to work, the experience has been valuable and life changing.
One client supported through the programme described how tailored, one‑to‑one employment support helped them rebuild confidence after a prolonged period away from stable work due to caring responsibilities and health challenges.
Councillor Rob Wilson, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Economic Growth, said:
“For many residents, returning to work can feel daunting, particularly if they are managing health conditions or other barriers.
“Connect to Work is proving that with the right support, people can succeed and thrive in employment.
“Seeing individuals build confidence, independence and lasting careers while supporting our local economy has been one of the most positive outcomes of the programme’s first year.”
In its second year, the programme will broaden employer engagement, boost participation, improve long-term employment outcomes, and support businesses across Shropshire.
Anyone who is interested in the Connect to Work programme can contact the Job Box at Telford & Wrekin Council on 01952 382888 or email ctwjobbox@telford.gov.uk