At the heart of the draft Get Suffolk Working strategy is the launch of Connect to Work, a major new programme designed to support people with health conditions, disabilities and complex barriers into sustainable and meaningful employment.
Backed by up to £9.5 million in funding from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Connect to Work aims to support more than 2,700 Suffolk residents over the next five years.
The programme will offer tailored training, personalised support and job placements, helping people find meaningful work that aligns with their strengths, aspirations and work experience.
Connect to Work forms a key part of the wider Get Suffolk Working strategy – Suffolk’s local response to the government’s national Get Britain Working initiative, which seeks to reduce economic inactivity and help people find good work.
Cllr Richard Smith MVO, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for finance, economic development and skills, said:
“There is strong evidence that being in work improves health and wellbeing and helps prevent social exclusion. Our economy also depends on a strong, skilled workforce for it to grow and thrive.
“Get Suffolk Working brings those priorities together with a practical, inclusive plan that helps people overcome barriers to employment. Everyone deserves the chance for a meaningful, secure and fairly paid job. This plan will help to make that possible.”
The plan has been developed in partnership with the DWP, the Suffolk and North-East Essex Integrated Care Board, and the Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board, with Suffolk County Council acting as the accountable body.
The plan focuses on stronger collaboration between health, skills, and employment services to build a more joined-up and inclusive system that works for all residents.
The cabinet will be asked to approve the draft plan and delegate authority to the Get Suffolk Working Partnership Board to finalise and oversee its delivery. The final plan is expected to be published by the end of October 2025.
Get Suffolk Working will complement and enhance existing local strategies – including the Suffolk Economic Strategy, the Local Skills Improvement Plan, and integrated care and health strategies – ensuring public investment delivers the maximum impact for residents and employers across Suffolk.
