News

Connect to Work in Lancashire has formally launched at a range of events held across the county. This participant focused programme, brings a collaborative approach to helping people managing health conditions, living with a disability or facing complex challenges, across Lancashire move closer to, enter and sustain employment. Managed by the Lancashire Skills and Employment Hub on behalf of the Lancashire Combined County Authority, Connect to Work is designed to ensure that every participant receives the tailored support they need to access work and thrive once in the workplace. 

 

At the heart of Connect to Work in Lancashire is collaboration. By working closely with delivery partners and community organisations, the programme offers joined‑up, person‑centred support that recognises that everyone’s journey into work is different. This partnership approach ensures that participants can access the right help at the right time - whether that’s confidence building, skills development, help with health or wellbeing, or practical support to overcome barriers to employment. 

 

Connect to Work Lancashire works with local businesses across a wide range of sectors. By listening to employers and understanding their workforce needs, the programme matches people to roles where both the participant and business will experience mutual benefit. 

 

Employers are supported to be inclusive, opening opportunities to people who may not have considered employment, or who need additional support to return to work. This not only helps businesses fill vacancies with motivated, well‑supported candidates, but also contributes to a more diverse and resilient local labour market. 

 

For participants, this employer‑focused approach means opportunities that are realistic, suitable and sustainable - roles that match their skills, interests and circumstances, rather than a one‑size‑fits‑all solution. 

 

What sets Connect to Work apart is the support that continues once someone starts work. Participants can access in‑work support, helping them to transition successfully into their new role. 

 

This ongoing support can include regular check‑ins, help with settling into the workplace, advice on managing routines and expectations and support to address any challenges that arise early on. By working alongside participants and employers during this crucial adjustment period, the programme helps build confidence, improve job retention and lay the foundations for long‑term success. 

 

Julie Graham, Employment CEO, commented: “We know that entering work is a big step, and no two journeys are the same. Through Connect to Work in Lancashire, we’re working in partnership to remove barriers, provide ongoing help and make sure people feel supported every step of the way - from first engagement through to settling confidently into their new role.” 

 

The launch of Connect to Work in Lancashire represents a significant step forward in supporting people with health conditions or disabilities into employment while supporting businesses to see the benefits of becoming inclusive employers. Through collaboration, inclusive recruitment and sustained in‑work support, the programme aims to create positive outcomes not just for individuals, but for businesses and communities across Lancashire. 

 

Connect to Work in Lancashire is committed to opening doors to opportunity and helping people build a more secure and rewarding working future. Read more information on Connect to Work in Lancashire.