Cardiff Council is set to play a leading role in delivering the UK Government’s new Connect to Work programme across South East Wales.
The Connect to Work programme, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is a new initiative designed to help people facing complex barriers including long-term health conditions, disabilities, and other challenges to find and sustain meaningful employment. The programme will also support those at risk of falling out of work.
As the proposed Grant Recipient Body for the South East Wales region, Cardiff Council will co-ordinate the delivery of Connect to Work across ten local authorities, bringing together local expertise, health services, and skills provision. The programme is expected to benefit more than 9,500 people regionally, including more than 2,000 Cardiff residents, between 2025 and 2030.
Fully funded by the DWP, Connect to Work is a voluntary, supported employment programme that takes a ‘place and train’ approach – placing individuals in suitable job roles and providing tailored, ongoing support and workplace adjustments. The programme will offer up to 12 months of intensive support for those out of work, and up to four months for those who are in work but are at risk of losing their job.
Connect to Work is designed for people who are not currently reached by mainstream employment services, including those with disabilities, neurodivergence, mental health needs, substance dependency, homelessness, care experienced young people, and more. The programme will also provide tailored self-employment support where appropriate.
Cardiff’s Into Work Advice Service, which has already helped more than 62,000 people with employment and reskilling support in the past year, will deliver the programme in-house.
Cabinet Member for Tackling Poverty and Supporting Young People, Cllr Peter Bradbury, said:
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Cardiff to lead the way in supporting people who face the greatest barriers to employment. By working together across the region, we can help thousands of residents access the support they need to find good jobs, improve their wellbeing, and build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
“Our Into Work Advice Service has a proven track record of delivering results. Their ability to build strong relationships with employers and tailor roles to meet individual’s needs has been key to this success. Delivering Connect to Work in-house means we can build on these foundations and continue to provide high-quality, personalised support to those who need it most.”
Subject to Cabinet approval and completion of grant agreements, delivery of Connect to Work will begin in Cardiff and across South East Wales in early 2026.
