The Royal Borough of Greenwich has secured a transformative £5.8 million government investment to provide comprehensive employment support for residents facing significant barriers to work. This substantial funding will launch Connect to Work, a groundbreaking voluntary programme delivering personalised vocational assistance to those struggling to enter or maintain employment.
Comprehensive Employment Support Programme
Connect to Work represents a major step forward in local employment support initiatives. The programme will deliver tailored, one-to-one vocational guidance for up to twelve months. Furthermore, it specifically targets individuals experiencing unemployment or job insecurity. Greenwich Local Labour and Business (GLLaB), the council’s established employment service, will manage programme delivery. Consequently, over 1,500 borough residents will benefit from this employment support over the next five years.
Targeted Support for Vulnerable Groups
The employment support programme focuses on residents facing multiple barriers to work. Eligibility criteria include several key categories:
- Health conditions – Physical or mental health issues and long-term disabilities
- Social circumstances – Ex-offenders, carers, and care leavers
- Housing challenges – People affected by homelessness or substance dependency
- Protected groups – Refugees, resettled Afghans and Ukrainians
- Survivor support – Domestic abuse or modern slavery survivors
- Youth at risk – Young people vulnerable to serious violence
Practical Employment Support Services
Connect to Work will provide practical, individualised employment support to build confidence and develop skills. The programme helps participants access sustainable employment opportunities. Residents can access the service through health practitioner referrals or self-referral. Additionally, the flexible approach ensures accessibility for all eligible individuals.
Council Commitment to Employment Support
Councillor Jackie Smith, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, emphasised the programme’s significance. “Our mission ensures everyone secures good employment opportunities,” she stated. “This tailored employment support overcomes barriers experienced by vulnerable community members.” Similarly, Councillor Mariam Lolavar highlighted the broader benefits of employment support. “Finding suitable jobs provides regular income and improves wellbeing through social connections,” she explained.
Integrated Employment Support Network
Connect to Work complements existing Department for Work and Pensions initiatives. The programme forms part of the comprehensive Get Britain Working Plan. Two established schemes already operate successfully in the borough:
- Restart programme – Supporting long-term unemployed since 2021
- Trailblazer initiative – Creating paid placements since June 2024
GLLaB continues providing employment support for ineligible residents. The service assists people at all career stages, from first-job seekers to career changers.
Sustainable Employment Support Partnership
The council’s partnership approach remains crucial to employment support success. Councillor Smith expressed confidence in building on previous achievements. “Programmes like Restart and Trailblazer delivered excellent results,” she noted. “Connect to Work will expand this successful employment support model.” The collaborative framework ensures comprehensive coverage across the borough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for the Connect to Work programme?
Greenwich residents aged 18+ facing specific employment barriers qualify. Eligibility includes health conditions, disability, homelessness experience, refugee status, or other challenging circumstances outlined in the programme criteria.
How long does the employment support last?
Participants receive up to twelve months of tailored support. The programme includes personalised vocational guidance and practical assistance throughout this period.
Can people refer themselves to the programme?
Yes, self-referral represents one access method. Health practitioners can also refer eligible residents directly to the employment support service.
What happens to residents not eligible for Connect to Work?
GLLaB provides alternative employment support for ineligible residents. The service assists people at all career stages through different programmes and initiatives.
How many people will benefit from this funding?
The programme expects to support over 1,500 residents during the next five years. The funding ensures comprehensive employment support across multiple vulnerable groups.
How does Connect to Work complement existing programmes?
The new programme integrates with Restart and Trailblazer initiatives. Together they form a comprehensive employment support network addressing different needs and circumstances.
