Thousands of residents in the Liverpool City Region could receive assistance to find or retain jobs through a new funding initiative. The Connect to Work programme is a voluntary scheme designed to support individuals in 'hidden unemployment'—including those who are disabled, long-term sick, or from disadvantaged groups—into employment.
At the recent Combined Authority meeting, proposals were approved for the programme to receive up to £14 million in government funding annually, potentially aiding at least 4,000 residents each year at its peak. The programme is set to run for a minimum of three years, with a possible 24-month extension depending on future government spending reviews.
Connect to Work is a crucial element of the Government’s £240 million 'Get Britain Working' plan, which aims to overhaul the employment support system to address the root causes of unemployment and economic inactivity. National statistics reveal that 1.5 million people are unemployed, over 9 million are economically inactive, and a record 2.8 million are out of work due to long-term sickness.
As part of efforts to eliminate employment barriers, a review will examine how employers can be better supported to hire and retain workers with disabilities and health conditions. The Connect to Work programme will specifically target individuals with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or those belonging to disadvantaged groups. This includes carers, ex-carers, ex-offenders, homeless individuals, Armed Forces veterans, people with substance abuse issues, care leavers, refugees, victims of domestic violence, young people involved in gangs or serious violence, and victims of modern slavery.
The programme will be developed by the Combined Authority in collaboration with the Department for Work and Pensions, continuing a successful partnership that has previously run targeted recruitment campaigns, including for Eurovision. Unlike traditional employment support, Connect to Work focuses on individual health and support needs rather than job market status. The programme is funded for three years, with an expected renewal to extend it to five years, starting in 2025.
Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram said:
"For too long, too many people – particularly those living with long-term illness, disabilities, or other challenges – have been shut out of the job market. The Connect to Work programme is a chance to put that right, offering the tailored support people need to find or stay in work.
“We’ve shown what’s possible when decisions and funding are placed in local hands – creating opportunities, closing skills gaps, and helping thousands of people into jobs. As one of the trailblazer regions for the government’s Get Britain Working plan, we’re proud to be leading the way in showing how this can be done.
“This isn’t just about getting people into work – it’s about helping them reach their potential, unlocking opportunities that benefit everyone in our communities and, ultimately, driving growth. With up to £14m a year, we know that can transform thousands of lives – and help make our region fairer, stronger, and more prosperous.”
Image credit: iStock and Liverpool City Region
