Finding work, returning to work or staying in work can be challenging, particularly when health, disability or other circumstances create additional barriers.
Connect to Work is a new free and voluntary employment support programme helping people across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough overcome these barriers and take steps towards finding and keeping employment.
The programme is funded by the UK Government and led locally by CPSL Mind and Cambridgeshire County Council, with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority overseeing the programme and working with specialist providers.
Support tailored to you
Everyone’s circumstances are different, which is why Connect to Work offers personalised, one-to-one support based on your individual needs, strengths and goals.
You’ll work with an Employment Specialist who can support you with:
- Setting goals and identifying your strengths and skills
- Finding suitable job opportunities
- Preparing for and moving into employment
- Understanding how work could affect your finances, including benefits calculations
- Connecting with other local services and support
- Working with employers to put the right support in place
- Staying in work if you’re already employed but finding it difficult to remain in your role
If you’re currently out of work, you can receive support for up to 12 months while looking for employment, followed by up to four months of in-work support once you start a new role.
If you’re already in work but are finding it difficult to stay in your role, you can receive up to four months of support.
Supporting employers too
Connect to Work also works with employers to help create more inclusive workplaces.
This can include support with inclusive recruitment and retention, reasonable adjustments, induction and training, and creating opportunities for people who may otherwise face barriers to employment.
Bringing together employment and wellbeing support
As a leading local mental health charity, CPSL Mind is jointly leading Connect to Work alongside Cambridgeshire County Council.
Our experience of supporting people with their mental health and wellbeing, working with communities and connecting people with local services means we’re well placed to help people identify what might be getting in the way of their employment goals and find the right support.
Abby Glonek, Connect to Work Access & Inclusion Lead at CPSL Mind, said:
“We know that being able to find and stay in work can have a really positive impact on people’s confidence, wellbeing and sense of purpose, but we also understand that getting into work or staying in work isn’t always straightforward.
Connect to Work is about looking at the person as a whole and understanding what might be getting in the way, then working alongside them to find the right support and opportunities.
Everyone’s journey is different, and we want people to feel listened to, supported and confident about taking their next steps.”
Who can access Connect to Work?
Connect to Work is available to people aged 18 and over who:
- Have the right to live and work in the UK
- Meet the programme’s eligibility criteria
- Are motivated to find work during the programme
Find out more
To find out more about Connect to Work and the support available, visit cpcaskills.com/connect-to-work.
