A new supported employment programme is set to open in North Wales in May 2026, offering tailored employment support to disabled people, people with health conditions and those facing complex barriers to getting into paid, sustainable work.
Denbighshire County Council are the Accountable Body and will lead the delivery of the Connect to Work programme in partnership with the other five North Wales local authorities [Conwy, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Ynys Môn and Wrexham].
North Wales will benefit from £12.9m over 4 years to deliver specialist and bespoke employment support to 3555 people who want to work, get back into work or need support in sustaining their current employment.
Councillor Jason McLellan who is Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth and Tackling Deprivation said:
“We know that disabled people and those with health conditions have so much to offer our communities, yet too many are left without the support they need to move into meaningful work.
“As the accountable body for Connect to Work across North Wales, we are committed to working with our partners, local organisations and our health colleagues to remove barriers, nurture wellbeing, and unlock potential.
“This programme aligns closely with our commitment to economic growth and tackling deprivation, supporting residents to develop skills, build confidence and access good, sustainable jobs.
“Our aim is to ensure that everyone who can and wants to work has the support they need to thrive.”
Gary Jones, Regional Programme Manager for Connect to Work said:
“Connect to Work will aim to bring individuals, health, employers and delivery partners together with a shared purpose of unlocking potential, creating meaningful opportunities, and helping people thrive through innovation and collaboration.”
Connect to Work is a voluntary programme and open to anyone who is over 16 years of age and who wants to work, who is a disabled person, has a health condition, or faces complex barriers to work. The programme is designed around local needs and opportunities, ensuring that support is tailored to the requirements of communities across North Wales.
Participants will be able to access a range of personalised support, including:
- Specialist employment advisers who work one‑to‑one with participants to understand their health, skills and employment needs.
- Advisers embedded within healthcare settings, including GP surgeries and mental health services.
- Support to engage with employers without navigating complex application processes.
- Ongoing in‑work support for both participants and employers to help ensure long‑term success.
Once the service opens, residents will be able to find local information and referral routes through their council’s website.
