A new Connect to Work programme has launched across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to support over 3,000 residents into work.
The Government-funded programme, delivered through Cornwall Council's People Hub, will help local people facing health-related or complex challenges to find and remain in work.
The voluntary initiative aims to support 3120 people across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly over the next four years.
Funded by the Department for Work and Pensions, Connect to Work provides personalised, one-to-one support for adults aged 18 and over who face barriers to finding or staying in work. The programme supports people with health conditions, disabilities and a range of other challenges that may affect employment, as well as those who are at risk of losing their job.
Residents interested in Connect to Work should contact the People Hub, which acts as a single point of contact for employment, skills and careers support across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The People Hub works with each person to understand their individual needs and goals and connects them with the most appropriate support through the programme's network of specialist delivery partners.
Cllr Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council portfolio holder for Economic Regeneration & Investment, said: "I'm pleased to see Connect to Work up and running in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Too many people who want to work face barriers that make it harder to find or keep a job. I encourage anyone looking for work, or worried about keeping their current job, to get in touch with the People Hub and find out how Connect to Work can help.
The practical, personalised support will help more people find work and give them the best chance of succeeding once they're there. It will also benefit local employers who may be facing recruitment challenges by opening up a wider and more diverse pool of motivated candidates."
One resident who has already benefited from Connect to Work is John, who secured a new role as a Social Prescriber with Stayathome Cornwall after being out of work for more than 20 years due to health challenges.
Referred to the programme by his Disability Work Coach, John had spent many years developing his skills through training and volunteering but lacked the confidence to return to paid employment. With support from Connect to Work, he updated his CV, strengthened his interview skills and received tailored coaching to help showcase his experience and strengths.
John successfully secured his new role and has now started work full-time in Truro, describing it as his "dream job".
Reflecting on his journey, John said: "I never wanted to give up on finding work, but after being out of employment for so long it wasn't always easy to know where to start. Connect to Work helped me build my confidence and recognise the skills and experience I already had. I'm incredibly grateful for the support I received and excited to be starting this new chapter."
Lindsay Wake, Director of Community Outreach at CHAOS Group, which includes Stayathome, said: "John's success shows what's possible when employers look beyond gaps on a CV and focus on a person's strengths and potential. With the right support, he has been able to take that important step back into employment and secure a role where he can make a real difference. It's a fantastic outcome and one he should be very proud of."
Connect to Work is delivered through the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly People Hub and builds on its proven track record of connecting residents with employment, skills, careers and wellbeing support.
Since 2020, the People Hub has supported nearly 4,000 residents, helped more than 500 people into work and supported over 1,600 people to gain new qualifications.
Residents interested in finding out more about Connect to Work, or employers interested in working with the programme, can contact People Hub at email hello@peoplehub.info or call 0333 015 0699.
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