Zarah ChoudharyWest London to become the first of 47 areas across England and Wales to receive dedicated five-year funding aimed at helping disabled people and those with health conditions get back to work.
As many as 100,000 people a year are set to receive tailored support nationally – including one-to-one employment advice and skills development – as rollout begins of Connect to Work, a new programme aimed at supporting those facing barriers to work.
Over the next five years, a partnership of Local Authorities in West London will receive a total of £42.8m to provide targeted help to up to 3,500 people by matching people with job opportunities that suit their needs.
West London will receive almost £9m of the £115m already committed to run the programme in its first year.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall MP, said: “As part of our Plan for Change we are fixing the broken welfare system – getting more people into work, putting more money in people’s pockets, and putting the benefits bill on a sustainable footing.
“The welfare system we inherited has shut too many talented people out of the workplace – with no support, no prospects, and no opportunities. We are changing this.
“That’s why I’m delighted to see our Connect to Work programme kick off, with over £40m of funding so local leaders in West London can give people in their area the tools they need to get in and on at work in a way that’s right for them.”
David Francis, director of West London Alliance, said: “The West London Alliance Boroughs are proud to be at the forefront of the ‘Connect to Work’ initiative, demonstrating the strength of our partnerships and our dedication to improving employment outcomes for West London residents.
“This programme provides vital and tailored support to those facing challenges in the labour market, helping them to secure sustainable employment and build better lives.
“The Connect to Work Programme is one of a number of initiatives being launched to help towards the government’s aim for an 80% employment rate.”
