Free employment support programme launches in Kent and Medway: Connect to Work
The Education People to deliver government-funded initiative
Launching today, Connect to Work is an employment support programme in Kent and Medway for people facing barriers to work. Delivered by The Education People on behalf of Kent County Council and Medway Council, and funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the scheme is part of the UK Government’s Get Britain Working strategy.
The programme aims to help individuals with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or social challenges find and stay in meaningful employment through tailored, practical support.
Trusted experts in supported employment
Our Supported Employment Service is a BASE award-winning and internationally recognised model of best practice. With a long track record of delivering results across Kent and Medway, we specialise in evidence-based, person-centred employment support that leads to lasting change.
The service is built on the Supported Employment model - tailored to individual needs and local job markets.
What is the Connect to Work programme?
Connect to Work is a free and voluntary job support programme offering up to 12 months of personalised employment coaching for individuals who are unemployed or at risk of losing their job. Support is delivered by skilled employment specialists who work closely with participants to improve confidence, build skills, and secure sustainable employment.
Our approach brings together health, training, and career development support in one joined-up service - helping people access jobs that match their goals and lifestyle.
Employment support for people with disabilities, health conditions, and barriers to work
Through years of experience, we understand that a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn't work when it comes to employment support.
This programme is designed for individuals who face additional challenges in the job market. Through Connect to Work, participants can access:
- one-to-one guidance from experienced employment professionals
- integrated health, skills, and career development support
- local training opportunities to build confidence and employability
- job search and placement assistance tailored to individual needs
- community-focused services aligned with Kent and Medway’s employment landscape.
Whether you’re looking for your first job, returning to work, or struggling to stay in employment, Connect to Work provides the right support to move forward.
Support for employers: building a diverse and resilient workforce
Inclusive hiring in Kent and Medway has never been easier. Employers are vital to the success of Connect to Work and benefit from access to a diverse pool of talented, motivated individuals.
By working with us, businesses can:
- recruit from underrepresented groups with free support
- fill vacancies quickly and cost-effectively
- improve staff retention through inclusive employment practices
- build more resilient and representative teams
- receive expert, localised assistance throughout the process.
This is a unique opportunity to make recruitment more inclusive, impactful, and cost-efficient.
Completely free for participants, employers and referrers
There is no cost to take part in Connect to Work. Support is fully funded by the DWP, making it accessible for individuals, businesses and referral partners alike.
Get involved – contact The Education People today!
If you or someone you support could benefit from tailored employment help - or if you're an employer seeking inclusive recruitment solutions – we’re here to help.
To find out more or get started, please visit our Connect to Work webpage for more information.
We are incredibly proud to be delivering Connect to Work in Kent and Medway. The Education People have pioneered Support Employment for over a decade, changing hundreds of lives and empowering individuals to live independent lives, whilst providing employers with amazing staff. There are few instances when things really are win, win, but supported employment really is that, for all parties. The Education People are as excited as they are honoured to be leading the way on this programme in the coming months.
