After you complete and submit the form:
- If you provide an email address, we will send you an invitation to our Aptem system from [email protected]. Follow the link in that email to finish your registration.
- If you do not provide an email address, we will contact you by phone to help you complete the next steps.
How Connect to Work can help
Personalised, one-to-one support
Work with a dedicated key worker to identify your goals, build confidence and create a plan that works for you.
Training opportunities
Access workshops, training and development tailored to your needs and local employer requirements.
Help with job search and applications
Get support with CV writing, interview preparation and job applications. Plus access to local job opportunities, routes into self-employment and ongoing support once you are in work.
Health and wellbeing support
Receive help with mental health, housing and other personal challenges that may be affecting your ability to work.
Who can apply for Connect to Work
Connect to Work supports people who are:
-
not currently in paid work
-
actively seeking employment
-
employed but at risk of dropping out of work
-
disabled, with a disability or a long-term health condition, as defined in the Equality Act 2010 or the Social Model of Disability
-
part of a specified disadvantaged group with complex needs that would benefit from extra support. This includes:
-
-
offenders or ex-offenders
-
-
-
carers or ex-carers
-
-
-
homeless people
-
-
-
veterans
-
-
-
people with current or previous drug or alcohol dependency
-
-
-
care experienced young person or a care leaver
-
-
-
refugees, a resettled Afghan
-
-
-
people on a Homes for Ukraine scheme
-
-
-
survivors of domestic abuse
-
-
-
young people identified as being involved or at risk of being involved in serious violence
-
-
-
victims of modern slavery
-
Eligibility
To be eligible you must:
-
be aged 18 or over (or over 16 in exceptional circumstances such as being at risk of leaving an apprenticeship or receiving Universal Credit)
-
live in Essex, Southend-on-Sea or Thurrock
-
have the right to live and work in the UK
-
not be excluded from accessing public funds
-
not be part of a Department for Work and Pensions employment programme
Martin’s Connect to Work story
After several years out of employment, Martin, age 60, wanted to rebuild his confidence and find work that suited his strengths. Through one‑to‑one guidance, he refreshed his skills, received personalised job search support and successfully secured a new role. His journey shows how tailored support can make a real difference at any age.
