News

Connect to Work: transforming futures

9 Mar. 2026

Connect to Work is a voluntary, government funded supported employment programme designed to help people overcome barriers to work - whether due to disability, a health condition, or complex personal challenges is delivered by Ingeus on delivered by us on behalf of Croydon, Sutton, Kingston and Merton.”
 
On Friday 6th March, South London Partnership formally launched their Connect to Work programme, bringing together programme participants, businesses and partners to discuss the impact this programme has already started to have in the local community. 

Success stories 
The programme began taking participants in late December 2025 and has already seen success, both through job starts but also through the personal transformation of participants. The programme has been uniquely structured to give participants the support they need to evolve as they spend time with their Employment Specialist. 

Taking into consideration increased confidence, new skills and transferable skills, Connect to Work has seen participants already flourish in this short period of time. 

Philip’s experience with Connect to Work has seen him start a new career, supported by his Employment Specialist. 
"My experience with Connect to Work has been incredible so far. I started with Mai in December and from the first set of calls I felt we built a good relationship and had a similar mindset. Mai helped me realise that even with my recent cancer diagnosis that she could still help me to find a role. Mai has been so supportive, she has taken the time to find out what my needs are and what I would value in a role. I know that Mai is looking for the right role for me and not just trying to push me towards something that wouldn’t suit me. I feel very lucky to be with Connect to Work and I am beyond grateful for everything Mai has done for me."

Strengthening local economies
For employers, the durability of Connect to Work, supporting participants both to find work and once they’re employed, has enabled them to ensure their staff understand how to work effectively with people that have a disability or health need. 
Employers highlighted that they had:

• Access to motivated, diverse, work ready talent.
• Support to create inclusive roles and working environments.
• Advice on workplace adjustments and in-work support for both new and existing staff. 

This support has enabled employers to make their workplaces truly representative of the communities that they serve. 

Partnerships that grow communities 
The event highlighted the significance of community outreach, something that Ingeus truly understands. With links into health providers, faith groups and other community organisations, Ingeus is creating community networks to support participants long-term.  

Connect to Work is beginning to show real impact. It is changing lives for the better and setting off the ripple effect that meaningful employment creates.

More information on Connect to Work can be found here, together with the ability to refer yourself or someone you know to this transformative programme.