Having a job can make a real difference to people’s lives. It can boost their confidence, improve their wellbeing, offer financial security, and create more opportunities for the future.
Connect to Work is helping people across Staffordshire move into work through free, personalised support.
Delivered by the Growth Company and Support Staffordshire on behalf of Staffordshire County Council, the service supports people with health conditions who are not currently in work but would like help finding a job that’s right for them.
Connect to Work advisers work alongside participants to help them explore suitable career options, access training, apply for roles, and prepare for interviews. Support is tailored to each person’s circumstances and designed around what matters most to them.
Importantly, help doesn’t stop once someone starts work. Continued support is available to help people settle into their role and overcome any challenges they may face as they begin their employment journey.
A recent success story is Kate from Stafford. Working closely with her adviser, Weronika, Kate overcame her initial nervousness around interviews and soon found a new job. Reflecting on the difference the programme made, she said, ‘It increased my confidence.’ What’s more, it has opened up new possibilities for Kate. “I want to get a mortgage on a house,’ she revealed. ‘That’s the plan.’
Community organisations, charities, and health services play a key role in helping people access this support. Many people take their first step after a conversation with a trusted organisation that understands their situation and can signpost them to the right place.
By working together, we can make sure that more Staffordshire residents end up in meaningful work.
If your organisation supports people with health conditions who are looking for work, Connect to Work could help.
Find out more or make a referral today: Connect to Work