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Employment summit brings together key partners

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Key partners from across Gloucestershire came together last week (Tuesday, 9 December) to discuss how to support even more people in the county back to work.

On the agenda was a look back on 10 years of the Forwards programme which successfully supported 1,700 people with disabilities and health conditions to find work - empowering them to live independent lives and flourish in work through 121 support, job clubs, outreach and educational links.

Gloucestershire County Council is now looking ahead to its latest government-backed initiative Connect to Work. The Connect to Work programme is a major new initiative launched in July 2025, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The programme is designed to help people with health conditions, disabilities or other barriers to employment move into or stay in meaningful work. Gloucestershire was one of the first of 47 areas across England and Wales to roll out this scheme, which is part of a wider national effort to improve employment rates and strengthen local economies. 

In attendance at the summit were representatives from county and district councils, health, the voluntary and community sector and Jobcentre Plus, with keynote speakers from Gloucestershire County Council, Integrated Care Board, Jobcentre Plus and the Department for Work and Pensions. 

Cllr Linda Cohen, cabinet member for education and skills at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people gathered at the summit. We have a long history of successfully supporting people back to the workplace. Work is one of the best things you can do to support your purpose, mental health, it also provides social opportunities and helps people to be self-sufficient.” 

Together the summit developed a pledge around collaboration and working together to ensure that people have access to opportunities.  

Following the summit, partners will continue working together to turn discussion into action. Key priorities include:

·       Strengthening collaboration between councils, health services, Jobcentre Plus, and the voluntary sector to ensure joined-up support for job seekers. 

·       Embedding the Connect to Work programme across Gloucestershire, making sure individuals with health conditions or disabilities can access tailored support. 

·       Expanding employer engagement to create more inclusive workplaces and increase opportunities for people facing barriers to employment. 

·       Developing pathways into education and training so that people can build skills and confidence for sustainable employment. 

 To find out more go to: Employment and skills hub | Gloucestershire County Council