Support for Essex has come at the right time, with:  

• Over 70,000 people having either ‘bad’ or ‘very bad’ health (2021 census).
• Almost 150,000 people saying that a disability limits their daily activities (2021 census).
• The East of England having fewer jobs per 1,000 residents than the country’s average (0.84). 

The programme aims to help 7,800 people across Greater Essex in the next five years, and is open to anyone over 18 with a disability or long-term health condition. 

Tony Ball, a Councillor at Essex County Council, said: “It’s about more than employment; it’s about inclusion, opportunity and building a stronger, fairer workforce for everyone. It’s really easy to get started with Connect to Work and there’s no pressure, just friendly support.” 

In this region, the programme will help find jobs for around 1,400 people aged 18-24 with health conditions – and that’s just in its first year. There’s potential to help thousands more in the coming years.

According to WMCA, in the West Midlands:  

• Youth unemployment can be more than double the national average (area dependent).
• 27,265 young people are claiming universal credit, with 12,600 having health conditions.

Connect to Work will feed into the Youth Plan drawn up by West Midlands Mayor, Richard Parker. This supports young people with exploring opportunities for employment, training, studying and more across the region.

Parker said: “By having the same access to opportunities, everyone has the freedom to make the right choices for them – to help them earn, live independently and improve their health and wellbeing.”

He added that the funding would “drive down youth unemployment” and “get our economy back on track”.

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

“I’m delighted that we have been awarded two new Connect to Work programmes in Essex and in the West Midlands. This achievement reflects the incredible dedication and expertise of our teams in supporting people into sustainable employment and improving participants wellbeing. Together, we’re continuing to make a real difference in communities across the country, helping individuals unlock their potential and thrive in work.”