The Connect to Work programme is growing in Hertfordshire, providing transformative support that helps residents with disabilities, health conditions, or other barriers gain meaningful employment.

This national programme is led locally by Step2Skills and delivered in partnership with Sunnyside Rural Trust, SPS Training Solutions, and now HACRO - our newest delivery partner. HACRO brings extensive experience supporting people facing multiple disadvantages - particularly those that have been involved in the criminal justice system - helping them build confidence, develop skills, and move closer to employment.

Chantal Lommel, Head of Service- Step2Skills, says: “Connect to Work is helping to shift what opportunity looks like in Hertfordshire. Every day, we see how personalised support and the right employer partnerships can open doors for people who have previously felt shut out of the workforce. It’s about recognising potential and ensuring people aren’t defined by the barriers they face.

"We are thrilled to welcome HACRO to our partnership network. Their understanding of the challenges faced by people with complex life experiences further strengthens the programme. As Connect to Work continues to grow, we’re committed to working with even more organisations who share our ambition to make employment more inclusive in Hertfordshire. We look forward to announcing further partners soon, as we extend this support to even more residents and businesses.”

What is Connect to Work?

Connect to Work is a personalised Supported Employment programme that pairs eligible individuals with dedicated Employment Advisors. These advisors work one-on-one with participants to build tailored employment plans, focusing on “place and train” strategies rather than traditional job searching. The programme is open to Hertfordshire residents aged 18 and over who are either unemployed or are at substantial risk of losing their job due to their disability, health or personal challenges.

Who can the programme help?

The programme is already making a difference to the lives of its participants, and we welcome people to contact us if they feel they are struggling to gain, or remain in, sustainable work.

Examples of who we could support include:

• Gemma, a 39-year-old mum recently diagnosed with autism, receiving support to re-enter the workforce after years of uncertainty and anxiety.
• Satinder, 47, an unpaid carer, rebuilding her confidence and exploring career options after years of caring for her parents.
• Michael, 32, who lives with extreme anxiety and is at risk of losing his job, looking for support and flexible working practices to help manage his condition.

A Major Investment in Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire is one of the first regions to benefit from the government’s £100 million funding boost to the Connect to Work programme. This investment is part of a broader national strategy to help over 300,000 people across England and Wales transition into secure, well-paid jobs.

Support for Employers

Connect to Work isn’t just for job seekers - it also empowers employers. Hertfordshire businesses of all sizes are invited to participate and benefit from:

• Recruitment support and job matching
• Guidance on inclusive practices and reasonable adjustments
• Ongoing collaboration with Employment Specialists
• Enhanced productivity and workplace culture

Join the Movement

Whether you're a resident looking for work or an employer seeking to build a more inclusive team, Connect to Work offers the tools, support, and expertise to make it happen. Together, we can break down barriers and build a stronger, more inclusive Hertfordshire.

For more information or to apply, visit Step2Skills Connect to Work.