Thousands across south west Wales to receive help into work through Connect to Work scheme
A MULTI-MILLION pound expansion of an employment support programme is set to help thousands of people across south west Wales find work, including many in Llanelli.
Almost 3,850 people who are sick, disabled or facing complex barriers to employment are expected to receive additional support through the Connect to Work initiative, backed by £14.4 million in funding from the UK Government.
Nia Griffith has welcomed the investment, saying it will help more people in her constituency access local job opportunities.
“I’m delighted that more people in Llanelli will get help to get into work due to this multi-million pound investment that will provide them with tailored support to tackle the issues they are facing,” she said.
“The funding will help people secure local jobs that work for them which is vital because when more people can be empowered to succeed in the world of work, our local communities and our economy thrive too.”
Tailored help for jobseekers
The Connect to Work programme provides personalised support for people who face significant barriers to employment. The scheme offers intensive assistance such as one-to-one coaching with employment specialists, job matching services, and ongoing support for both participants and employers.
Support may include placing work advisers in GP surgeries, running confidence-building workshops, or helping individuals access affordable childcare so they can return to employment.
Participation in the programme is voluntary, and people can either self-refer or be referred through healthcare professionals, local authorities or voluntary organisations.
Part of wider national investment
South west Wales is one of 16 additional areas across England and Wales to receive confirmed funding as part of a £300 million expansion of the scheme.
The expansion is expected to provide tailored employment support to more than 75,000 additional people who face complex barriers to work.
Overall investment in the Connect to Work programme now exceeds £950 million across England and Wales, with local authorities and partners shaping support to meet the needs of their communities.
