David Burton-Sampson is pleased that Essex is going to be amongst the first fifteen areas of the country to be benefit from additional government funding to help sick and disabled people return to work.
A new £338 million investment into the Connect to Work programme will deliver localised, tailored support to over 85,000 people who are sick, disabled or face complex barriers to work in 15 areas across England.
The scheme provides intensive, personalised help including individual coaching from employment specialists, job matching services, and ongoing support for both participants and employers to ensure sustainable employment outcomes.
The Greater Essex area will receive up to £30.7 million supporting 7,800 people across Southend-on-Sea, Thurrock, and Essex into good jobs.
The scheme will be entirely voluntary and is for anyone who is disabled, has a health condition or is experiencing non-health related barriers to work.
David says: ‘There are many people out of work who want to work, and who could work given the right support. I’m pleased that the government is now taking concrete steps to support people back into sustainable, fulfilling employment. I look forward to seeing how this programme develops.’