Rolling out from April 2025 and spanning 43 areas across England and four areas in Wales, Connect to Work aims to support 100,000 disabled people and people with complex needs into sustainable employment each year.   

This is a voluntary programme launched by the UK Government through the Get Britain Working White Paper. It is designed to help people who are economically inactive or at risk of falling out of work due to a health condition, adhering to the principles of both the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model and the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF).

Our interactive webinar explored how to unlock the potential of Connect to Work, with a specific focus on lessons for successful delivery. Starting with a presentation of L&W’s recent research on the implementation of Connect to Work in London, we considered the opportunities and challenges this new programme represents. We also heard insights from key stakeholders including government, delivery partners and employers.

We were joined by:

• Hilary Patel, Joint Head of Connect to Work Policy Team, Disability Opportunities and Employment Support, Department for Work and Pensions
• Ramsay Taylor, Supported Employment Manager, Durham County Council
• Charley Hullah, speaking to his lived experience of employment support programmes