Groundwork NE & Cumbria is Appointed Key Delivery Partner For The Connect to Work Programme
Groundwork NE & Cumbria has been appointed as one of the lead delivery partners for the North East Combined Authority’s Connect to Work initiative, launched as part of the Government’s Get Britain Working Strategy.*
Groundwork NE & Cumbria will be teaming up with other project partners in Newcastle and North Tyneside to provide Individual Placement and Support, helping people overcome significant health issues, return to work, and stay in employment.
In Newcastle, Groundwork is leading a partnership with Newcastle City Council, the Education Development Trust, JET and Triage with the target of working with over 1,600 local people. In North Tyneside, Groundwork is leading a separate partnership with North Tyneside Council and Triage to target over 900 people in the area.
Connect to Work is designed to be a collaborative, locally led approach to tackling economic inactivity, working with people in priority** groups to provide targeted
support through the Supported Employment model of “place, train, and maintain”. Individual Placement and Support (IPS) will be used, combining employment support with primary and secondary health services, as well as other support services.
Integration is essential for the effective delivery of IPS with local health, employment and community support partners collaborating with local authorities to tackle economic inactivity, expand employment opportunities and support local and national economic growth. Delivery will be shaped by local priorities and designed for the maximum benefit of individuals and local communities.
By encouraging a joined-up approach between health and employment services, Connect to Work will support those currently outside the workforce and facing greater labour market disadvantages to get them back into, and stay in, work. Supporting local people to realise their potential is an important first step towards the future devolution of employment support and reflects the Government’s ambition to create a more inclusive economy.
Steve Roberts, Chief Executive of Groundwork NE & Cumbria, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the North East Combined Authority to deliver these Connect to Work programmes across the region. We have a proven track record in working with individuals and communities to tackle health and social barriers to work and supporting people back into employment. This new joined-up partnership approach has the capacity to transform lives, unlocking the potential of more people and adding to the region’s prosperity.”
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “The North East is an amazing place to work but too many people are facing barriers when they’re trying to find a job.
“However, that’s all about to change as we help thousands of people back to the workplace with tailored support that tackles the issues they’re facing.
“It’s all part of our New Deal for North East Workers, we’re helping local people secure the jobs that work for them.
“Because when everyone can succeed, our communities and our economy thrive.”