With Connect to Work, you can employ, retain, and empower motivated local talent.
Connect to Work is a UK Government–funded programme that helps employers strengthen their workforce by recruiting motivated people with disabilities, health conditions, or other complex needs. It connects local talent with local employers, supporting businesses to grow while creating meaningful opportunities for people who are too often overlooked.
The programme also provides targeted support for existing employees who may be struggling to stay in work due to health or personal challenges.
“Every participant you employ is supported by a dedicated Employment Specialist”
Personalised, Wraparound Support
Every participant you employ is supported by a dedicated Employment Specialist who works closely with your business.
This includes:
This ensures your new employee gets the best possible start, and you’re never doing it alone.
Building Inclusive Practices
Connect to Work helps you embed inclusive approaches across your organisation, including:
These improvements support long‑term growth and create a more welcoming environment for all employees.
Support for Employee Retention
If existing staff are facing health or personal challenges, Employment Specialists can provide tailored support to help them remain in meaningful work.
Could Connect to Work help your business recruit and retain the right people?
Connect to Work is a UK Government-funded programme designed to help employers recruit, retain and support their workforce.
Through the programme, employers can access support to:
We’re inviting employers of all sizes and sectors to join one of our online Connect to Work Employer Discovery Sessions via Microsoft Teams on:
Each session will provide a straightforward introduction to Connect to Work, explain the support available and give you the opportunity to ask questions and explore how your organisation could get involved.
Whether you are currently recruiting, looking at ways to improve staff retention, or simply want to understand what support is available, we would be delighted to have you join us.
Interested in attending?
Please email Lesley Robinson at lesleyr@cumbriachamber.co.uk to register your interest.
Your Employment Specialist takes time to understand your business needs and matches you with the right person, someone whose skills and goals align with your roles.
This approach helps you:
Whether you’re just beginning your inclusion journey or already a Disability Confident Employer, Connect to Work links you with services, guidance, and resources to strengthen your workplace culture.
Small changes can make a big difference, and the programme helps you make them confidently.
Businesses partnering with Connect to Work often experience:
Connect to Work gives employers a simple, powerful way to build a more inclusive and productive workforce.
Connect to Work has its first powerful employer case study featuring Stagecoach, highlighting the real impact inclusive employment can have for both individuals and businesses. You can watch the video here
If you want to strengthen your workforce, improve staff retention, and open your doors to talented people in your community, Connect to Work can help.
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