Gloucestershire County Council has announced the official launch of its Connect to Work scheme, which began operating in July 2025.
The initiative, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is designed to help people across the county overcome barriers to employment. Over the next four and a half years, the programme aims to support more than 2,900 individuals who face challenges such as health conditions or difficulties staying in work.
Gloucestershire is one of the first of 47 areas across England and Wales to roll out the scheme, which forms part of a wider national effort to improve employment rates and strengthen local economies.
Recent figures show that around 17.5% of Gloucestershire residents aged 16–64 are economically inactive. This includes students and those who have retired early, while a further 2.6% are unemployed.
Cllr Linda Cohen, cabinet member for education and skills, welcomed the programme’s launch, saying: “The Connect to Work programme represents a pivotal moment for Gloucestershire. By supporting those who face barriers to getting into or getting back to work we are fostering a more inclusive and supportive community. This helps us to fulfil our commitment to ensuring that every resident has an opportunity to thrive and find meaningful employment.”
The scheme will be delivered through Gloucestershire County Council’s established Employment and Skills Hub, which has been successfully running similar programmes for over a decade. Acting as a central gateway to skills and employment support, the Hub will provide tailored advice, guidance, and training to help residents move closer to sustainable work.
The Council said it is confident that Connect to Work will play a key role in improving opportunities for local people and contributing to the county’s long-term economic growth.