Gloucestershire County Council’s Forwards employment service celebrates 10th anniversary

Initially focused on adults with learning disabilities and autism, the service expanded to help people with various disabilities and health conditions. GCC was the first local authority invited by Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to join the Disability Confident Scheme, promoting inclusive employment. 

Forwards inspired other successful GCC programmes which collectively helped thousands of people move closer to or into work, education or training. The service also introduced the first education-based adviser to support young people with disabilities transitioning from education to work. 

2025 also marks the 10th anniversary of GCC’s supported internship programme, which has helped 368 young people with SEND access supported internships, with over half securing paid employment. 

Forwards has introduced various associated programmes for different groups, including care leavers, refugees, asylum seekers, and those over 50. Since 2015, over 1,500 people have been supported into work through GCC’s employment programmes, with 85% remaining in employment for at least 52 weeks. 

Case Study – Laura 

Laura, a single mum, was the second person Forwards helped into paid work. Starting with a cleaning role at Inclusion Gloucestershire in 2015, she later increased her hours with a role at Milestone School. Recently, Laura found a new part-time cleaning job with Solo Service, thanks to Forwards' support. 

Laura said: “Throughout my time with Forwards, I have found them to be very helpful, understanding, and supportive. I have gained confidence and am super pleased at finding work and them being a supportive employer.” 

In 2021, GCC established the Employment and Skills Hub, providing advice and support to over 2,500 people. In 2023, the Gloucestershire Employment Alliance was formed to deliver holistic and sustainable outcomes for disadvantaged individuals. 

In 2025, GCC will launch the Gloucestershire Connect to Work Programme, offering 1:1 support to 1,000 people annually to move into or retain employment. The programme will run until March 2029, targeting disadvantaged groups, including those with long-term health conditions, disabilities, and caring responsibilities.

Cllr David Gray, cabinet member for the economy, said: “For the last 10 years, Forwards has helped us achieve our vision of making Gloucestershire a place where everyone has an opportunity to contribute and thrive. Helping local people access local jobs helps Gloucestershire’s economy, and through the work Forwards does with our employers creating inclusive workplaces, we are creating sustainable change. 

“The new Connect to Work programme offers further opportunity to build on the successes of the past 10 years and respond to the need to create resilient and inclusive workplaces, offering opportunities for the workforce of the future.”