Disabled people and those with health conditions in Ealing and six other West London boroughs are set to be helped by a £42.8 million employment support scheme aimed at getting thousands back into work.
The support, announced by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), will be provided via the West London Alliance – a partnership of seven boroughs including Ealing – as part of the new national ‘Connect to Work’ programme.
The West London scheme, to be delivered by Shaw Trust, is expected to support around 3,500 people in West London each year, offering tailored advice, training and job opportunities to help individuals build confidence and move towards sustained employment.
Nearly £9 million will be spent in the first year of the five-year programme, which is being rolled out across selected areas in England and Wales. The initiative is part of a wider £1 billion investment in disability employment support announced in the Autumn Statement.
Support will be delivered locally and designed to fit around people’s needs, while also helping employers to recruit and retain disabled workers.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall, said: “The welfare system we inherited has shut too many talented people out of the workplace – with no support, no prospects, and no opportunities. We are changing this. That’s why I’m delighted to see our Connect to Work programme kick off, with over £40 million of funding so local leaders in West London can give people in their area the tools they need to get in and on at work in a way that’s right for them.”
David Francis, director of West London Alliance, said: “The West London Alliance Boroughs are proud to be at the forefront of the ‘Connect to Work’ initiative, demonstrating the strength of our partnerships and our dedication to improving employment outcomes for West London residents.”
Mr Francis added: “This programme provides vital and tailored support to those facing challenges in the labour market, helping them to secure sustainable employment and build better lives. The Connect to Work Programme is one of a number of initiatives being launched to help towards the government’s aim for an 80% employment rate.”
