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Connect to Work will provide intensive support to people with disabilities, health conditions and/or other complex barriers to enable them to find and sustain employment.

The programme represents a significant investment in provision for local people with the programme bringing £3.2 million of additional support over the next five years.

Funding will enable a team of employment specialists to provide tailored support to up to 300 people per year, and will form part of the Council’s wider Job Box Service.

Residents will be able to self-refer to Connect to Work, or they may choose to be referred by a service or organisation they are already working with.

You can find out more information about Connect to Work by emailing ctwjobbox@telford.gov.uk, calling 01952 382888, or by visiting our Job Box drop in desk at Southwater One, Telford (open 10am-5pm Monday to Friday).

Through Connect to Work people will be able to work with an employment specialist to:

• Understand their goals and ambitions
• Get support finding suitable jobs
• Access support with interviews, applications and CVs
• Receive help to understand the financial implications of transitioning into work
• Gain support in the workplace to learn the job
• Get support for individuals and their employer to respond to specific needs
• Receive a rapid response to any concerns or difficulties as they settle into the role
• Benefit from impartial advice and guidance about employment options

Connect to Work can also provide to support to people who are in employment but due to disability or health issues, face challenges remaining in, or returning to work after a period of sickness. Both employers and employees can refer themselves to Connect to Work for this type of support.

In all cases, Connect to Work is a voluntary programme with intensive support for up to 12 months (if unemployed) and 4 months (if in employment).

Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment & Skills, said:

“We are delighted that the Connect to Work programme has launched - helping people break down those barriers which hinder them from finding employment and give them a 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 organisations across the region to deliver this scheme and make a difference for our residents to help them achieve their employment goals.

“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.”

For more information and support please visit Telford & Wrekin Council’s Job Box service – www.telfordjobbox.co.uk