The South London Partnership’s Connect to Work initiative aims to assist those in need, including individuals with health conditions, by linking them to local resources and opportunities.
The programme, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions, seeks to establish stronger connections between key sectors such as the NHS, businesses, and social care to combat unemployment.
It will also integrate local work, health, and skills support.
Croydon will spearhead the programme for the South London Partnership, overseeing its daily operations.
The initiative builds on the success of previous employment programmes in Croydon, including the Pioneer Programme, which is part of the Work and Health Programme.
Moumita Dutta, a Croydon resident who participated in the Pioneer Programme last year, commended the assistance she received in enhancing her CV and the practical support that led her to secure employment this year.
The Connect to Work scheme is set to commence later this year, with an initial duration of three years and the possibility of a two-year extension.
It aligns with Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s goal to bolster the local economy and provide residents with opportunities to upskill and secure employment, as outlined in the Mayor’s Business Plan 2022-26.
Mr Perry said: “We are looking forward to delivering this new programme and to offer practical and positive help to get more people into secure and suitable jobs.
“We’re pleased that the programme will support up to 1,400 South London Partnership residents per year, and 50 per cent of these will be our residents.
“We will take a collaborative, locally-led approach to help connect local work, health and skills support.
“This will create a holistic, joined up approach to maximise the benefits for people as well as communities.”
Sarah Ireland, chief executive of the Royal Borough of Kingston and South London Partnership lead for employment and skills, said: “We are excited to be launching the tender for South London Connect to Work, our new supported employment programme, developed to build tailored pathways into good jobs for south Londoners, and create inclusive working environments where everyone can thrive professionally.
“This programme will not only help people find good jobs, but it will help our businesses access a more diverse talent pipeline, equipped with the skills to help our economy prosper and grow.”
The South London Partnership is a sub-regional collaboration of the five London boroughs of Croydon, Kingston upon Thames, Merton, Richmond upon Thames, and Sutton.
Together, they aim to enhance south London as a thriving place for residents to live and work.
