Connect to Work is a free, flexible programme that helps people in Essex who are out of work or struggling to stay in employment.

Connect to Work supports people who are: 

• not currently in paid work 

• not 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

As a professional working with potential eligible individuals, you can help them complete an expression of interest form.

Before making a referral

Before making a referral, you must:

• Discuss the programme with the individual
• Ensure they understand the purpose, expectations, and commitment
• Confirm they are motivated and ready to engage
• Confirm they have a National Insurance Number

If a participant is scheduled to undergo surgery or medical treatment that will result in a recovery period preventing meaningful engagement with employment support, they should not be referred to the programme until they are sufficiently recovered and feel ready to participate.

Participants must meet at least one from each category:

a) Employment Situation

• Economically inactive or unemployed
• In precarious employment and at risk of dropping out
• History of struggling to retain employment or has never worked

b) Support Needs

• Require tailored support beyond standard provision
• Likely to struggle with learning new skills due to a disability or long-term health condition
• Needs integrated support (e.g. health, probation, social care)
• Require workplace adjustments or employer flexibility
• Need sustained support to remain in work over and above standard reasonable adjustments

Do not refer individuals who:

• Do not meet eligibility or suitability criteria
• Are already receiving sufficient employment support elsewhere
• Have not had the opportunity to discuss the Connect to Work programme
• Are not immediately able to engage with support

Completing an expression of interest

Expressions of Interest (EOIs) must be fully completed with all information requested on the EOI form, including: 

• National Insurance number
• Date of birth
• Contact details (including email address or phone number)

You must not use your own email address to apply on someone else’s behalf.

Please do not complete a referral with incomplete information as this will delay or prevent referral processing. 

Find more information, full eligibility criteria and apply on the Information for Individuals page.

If you have any questions about the programme, eligibility or would like support completing the EOI, contact [email protected]