This month, we launched Connect to Work in Hampshire. 

Commissioned by Hampshire County Council, the programme will match services to local need, giving employers a diverse pool of talent to hire from, while supporting with onboarding and retaining employees. At the same time, local Hampshire residents with health conditions and disabilities can access 1:1 coaching and job matching, getting more people into work. 

Hampshire is best known for its beautiful coastline and vast stretches of the New Forest. But published figures from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) show 23,000 residents are currently economically inactive – people who want to work, and could do so with the right support. 

Over the next five years, Connect to Work in Hampshire could help 4,800 residents as they look to gain meaningful employment, and benefit their health and wellbeing. 

Connect to Work is part of the government’s Get Britain Working strategy. So far, we’re delivering the programme in six areas, including Sheffield, Great Yarmouth and Essex. The West London arm recently celebrated over 1,288 job starts – showing what can be achieved with the right support, given at the right time. 

In Hampshire, Connect to Work builds on other support we already offer in the area. Our IPS Together service empowers Hampshire residents with mental health needs to find paid work. 

David Harper, Managing Director for Work, Wellbeing and Health, said:  

“Our latest contract win in Hampshire is another string to our bow, and demonstrates the impact we’re already having up and down the country on supporting people with securing work. As always, our goal is to create opportunities for everyone to succeed – no matter their background or barriers. I’m delighted that Shaw Trust has been awarded this contract, and proud to support people’s work and wellbeing.”