Connect to Work
This webpage is under development, and content will be added as Somerset Council continue to collect local evidence and intelligence to inform the Connect to Work delivery plan and more broadly activities that support the Governments Get Britain Working Strategy.
Connect to Work is the first programme under the Government’s new Get Britain Working Strategy to tackle economic inactivity.
It will be delivered via grants across 43 clusters of Local Authorities in England, shaped around local services and priorities, to help people find and fulfil their potential to work.
It will be a voluntary, high-fidelity Supported Employment programme, connecting work, health and skills support across England and Wales.
This is a work programme to help disabled people, those with health conditions and people with complex barriers to employment, to find sustainable work.
This approach will be based on the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, or the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF)
If you have any questions regarding Somerset Connect to Work or would like to be involved in activities to support the development of the Somerset Connect to Work delivery model, please contact Connect2Work@Somerset.gov.uk
Get Somerset Working is Somerset’s local strategy to reduce economic inactivity and foster a more inclusive and resilient labour market.
Register your interest.
Events.
Coffee and Collaboration: Unlock the Power of Inclusive Recruitment
Grow your business. Strengthen your workforce. Support your community.
Join us at Taunton Rugby Football Club on February 24, 2026 at 9:00 AM for an energising free coffee morning designed to connect local employers with the wide range of talent across Somerset.
This is a relaxed, interactive session where you’ll:
- Discover how inclusive recruitment can boost productivity, retention, and workplace culture
- Learn about local support available to help you hire confidently
- Hear real examples of businesses who’ve successfully diversified their workforce
- Connect with other employers who are passionate about people and growth
Thousands of individuals across Somerset are eager to work and bring value to employers just like you—together, we can unlock that potential.
Whether you’re an HR leader, hiring manager, or business owner, this free event is designed to help you recruit smarter, strengthen your team, and make a lasting impact.
Location: Taunton Rugby Football Club Taunton, England
Date: Tuesday, Feb 24 from 9 am to 12 pm
Cost: Free
Register: Find out more and register for the Coffee and Collaboration for Inclusive Recruitment event:
Coffee and Collaboration for Inclusive Employment (opens in a new tab; external site)
Presentations.
Connect to Work – SEIS – Market Engagement
Somerset Connect to Work Programme – Stakeholder Presentation – 19 February 2025
Somerset Connect to Work Programme – Stakeholder Presentation – 29 January 2025
Role of Community Employment Hubs – Connect to Work Triage and Referral
Connect to Work – Procurement Info and Guidance
WorkFit MSK Programme – Early support for MSK recovery and return to work in Somerset
Related information.
Connect to Work – gov.uk (opens in a new tab; external site) [External link]
Get Britain Working (opens in a new tab; external site) [External link]
Community Employment Hubs (opens in a new tab; external site) [External link]
Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model (opens in a new tab; external site) [External link]
Support Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) (opens in a new tab; external site) [External link]
Useful links / Library
(opens in a new tab; external site)The Government is making big changes to the Disability Confident scheme to give disabled people better support at work and help employers create more inclusive workplaces. The updated scheme includes stronger standards, more help for small businesses, and guidance shaped by disabled people.
