What is Connect to Work?
Delivered in partnership with Eat That Frog CIC and funded by UK Government, Connect to Work provides one-to-one support for individuals across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.
Personalised job matching and in-work help for as long as you need it.
Connect to work supports people who want to work but need tailored support to get there.
We focus on real jobs, inclusive employers and support that continues after you start work.
Who is it for?
Adults (aged 18+) who face barriers to employment, including health conditions, caring responsibilities, housing insecurity or other life circumstances.
A key ambition of Connect to Work is to build inclusive, person-centred employment pathways that integrate health, skills and social support services.
How it works…
Job matching based on your goals and strengths.
Support before, during, and after you start work.Paid roles only.
One-to-one support from a dedicated specialist.
Job matching based on your goals and strengths.
Support before, during, and after you start work.
Paid roles only.
What to expect…
Connect to Work is built around you. Support is personalised, voluntary and focused on helping you move into paid work in a way that feels right for you.
Here is what the journey usually looks like:
Getting started:
Once you are referred, a friendly Employment Specialist will get in touch to introduce themselves and talk through what support is available.
The first step is about:
Getting to know you.
Understand what you want from work.
Checking that Connect to Work is the right fit for you.
There is no pressure and no judgment. This is your choice.
Understanding you & your goals
You will work one-to-one with your Employment Specialist to build a clear picture of what matters to you.
Together you will:
Talk about your skills, interests and strengths.
Discuss any health, wellbeing or life factors that might affect work.
Create a simple, personalised plan based on your goals.
This plan is flexible and can change as things develop.
Working with employers
Your Employment Specialist will start speaking to employers on your behalf or support you to do this yourself if you prefer.
This includes:
Finding employers who offer inclusive and supportive workplaces.
Talking through any adjustments or flexibility you may need.
Making sure roles are realistic, paid and right for you.
You will not be pushed into jobs that do not suit you.
Finding the right job
When opportunities come up, your Employment Specialist will help match you to roles that fit your goals, skills and preferences.
Support may include:
Searching and applying for jobs.
Preparing for interviews or informal meetings.
Exploring different ways of working, including part time or flexible hours.
The focus is on finding work that works for you, not just getting a job quickly.
Support when you start work:
Support does not stop once you start a job. Your Employment Specialist will stay in touch for as long as you need.
This can include:
Help settling into your role.
Support with workplace adjustments.
Liaising with your employer if needed.
Planning next steps or future progression.
The aim is to help you feel confident, supported, and settled at work.
Key Facts
Employment Specialist
A friendly employment specialist will get to know your situation, work with you on your goals, and be there every step of the way
Personalised Support
Built around you, support is personalised and focused on helping you move into paid work in a way that feels right for you
Working with Employers
Your employment specialist will start speaking to employers on your behalf and support you when you start work.
Action Plan
You will work one to one with your employment specialist to build a clear picture of what matters to you
Job Matching
Your employment specialist will match you up with suitable jobs based on your goals and strengths
Continued Support
Support does not stop as soon as you start work. Your employment specialist will support you for as long as you need.
To be eligable for this programme you must:
- 18+ (or 16 -18 in receipt of Universal Credit)
- Reside in Torbay
- Not be on any other DWP Programme
- Entitled to live/work in the UK
- Have a barrier/disability or long term health condition (see barrier/disability list)
Barrier/disability:
- Disability or long term health condition
- Severe and enduring mental health condition
- Learning disability and/or autism
- Carer or ex-carer
- Ex-offender
- Homeless or in temporary accommodation
- Veteran
- Drug or alcohol dependancy
- Care experienced or care leaver
- Refugee, Afghan resettler or Ukrainian scheme
- Survivor of domestic abuse
- At risk of serious violence
- Victim of modern slavery
How do I start?
It’s easy, just reach out to us, or complete the Expression of Interest form on the link below.
We’ll contact you for an informal chat to see how best we can help.
There is no pressure and no judgement. This is your choice.
