Connect to Work, One-to-one support for individuals across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Personalised job matching and in-work help for as long as you need it.
Torbay
Provision Area
1:1
Group size
16+
Age
- Age Requirement
16+
- Eligibility
Must reside in Torbay
Not on any other DWP Programme
Entitled to live/work in the UK
Disability or long term health condition - Delivery Providers
Eat That Frog CIC
I Can Do That CIC - Delivery Area
Torbay (Torquay, Paignton)
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What is Connect to Work?
Connect to Work supports people who want to work but need tailored support to get there. We focus on real jobs, inclusive employers and support that continues after you start work.
Who is it for?
Young people aged 16 – 17 (who are in receipt of UC*) and adults (aged 18+) who face barriers to employment, including health conditions, caring responsibilities, housing insecurity or other life circumstances.
*In exceptional circumstances, young people who are aged 16 and 17 in England may be able to access Connect to Work. Please let us know if you are interested and we can chat through if it’s right for you.
"A key ambition of Connect to Work is to build inclusive, person-centred employment pathways that integrate health, skills and social support services."
How it works
- One-to-one support from a dedicated specialist
- Job matching based on your goals and strengths
- Support before, during and after you start work
- Paid roles only
Are you an organisation ?
Download and print our current leaflet to showcase it in your community signposting displays.
Download the leaflet
What to Expect
Connect to Work is built around you. Support is personalised, voluntary and focused on helping you move into paid work in a way that feels right for you.
Here is what the journey usually looks like:
Getting started:
Once you are referred, a friendly Employment Specialist will get in touch to introduce themselves and talk through what support is available.
This first step is about:
- Getting to know you
- Understanding what you want from work
- Checking that Connect to Work is the right fit for you
There is no pressure and no judgement. This is your choice.
Understanding you and your goals:
You will work one to one with your Employment Specialist to build a clear picture of what matters to you.
Together you will:
- Talk about your skills, interests and strengths
- Discuss any health, wellbeing or life factors that might affect work
- Create a simple, personalised plan based on your goals
This plan is flexible and can change as things develop.
Working with employers:
Your Employment Specialist will start speaking to employers on your behalf or support you to do this yourself if you prefer.
This includes:
- Finding employers who offer inclusive and supportive workplaces
- Talking through any adjustments or flexibility you may need
- Making sure roles are realistic, paid and right for you
You will not be pushed into jobs that do not suit you.
Finding the right job:
When opportunities come up, your Employment Specialist will help match you to roles that fit your goals, skills and preferences.
Support may include:
- Searching and applying for jobs
- Preparing for interviews or informal meetings
- Exploring different ways of working, including part time or flexible hours
The focus is on finding work that works for you, not just getting a job quickly.
Support when you start work:
Support does not stop once you start a job. Your Employment Specialist will stay in touch for as long as you need.
This can include:
- Help settling into your role
- Support with workplace adjustments
- Liaising with your employer if needed
- Planning next steps or future progression
The aim is to help you feel confident, supported and settled at work.
Delivery providers
91 Union Street, Torquay, TQ1 3DG | 01803 5515551 | info@eatthatfrog.ac.uk
136 Union Street, Torquay, TQ2 5QG | 01803 201332 | info@icandothat.co
Employer Benefits
Employing someone who needs additional support is not about lowering expectations. It’s about unlocking potential, strengthening your workforce and building a more inclusive business.
Wider Talent Pool
Access skilled, motivated individuals who are often overlooked due to misconceptions or barriers. By focusing on ability rather than disability, you can fill roles with people who are ready and eager to contribute.
Increased innovation and productivity
Diverse teams bring fresh perspectives, different ways of thinking and creative problem – solving. Inclusive workplaces consistently benefit from improved performance and new ideas.
Improved retention and morale
Supporting employees with health conditions or additional needs helps people stay in work for longer. This reduces staff turnover, builds loyalty and create a more committed workforce.
Enhanced reputation
Demonstrate positive leadership within your community as a fair, responsible and inclusive employer. This strengthens your brand and builds trust with customers, partners and future employees.
Free resources and ongoing support
Gain access to practical guidance, tools and advice to support inclusive employment. We help you navigate available support and make the process clear and manageable.
Better understanding across your workforce
Inclusive employment helps build awareness, confidence and understanding around disability and mental health. This leads to a more supportive, respectful workplace for everyone.
Fair and accessible recruitment
Commit to inclusive recruitment practices by offering interviews to candidates who meet essential criteria and making reasonable adjustments. This ensures fairness while helping you find the right person for the role.
Disability Confident
Eat That Frog CIC can support and advise you, as an employer, to become a recognised ‘Disability Confident’ Employer.
Employer Services
If you are an employer or an employee, we offer a range of services from employee retention support, recruitment and becoming a Disability Confident Employer.
Click here to find out more
