Ready to create a more inclusive workplace? Connect To Work provides expert support and practical strategies to help employers attract, retain, and grow a diverse talent pool.

The Connect To Work programme gives employers the chance to start or strengthen their disability/inclusion strategies with guidance from Supported Employment specialists.

Delivered locally by Step2Skills, this free programme helps create more accessible workplaces by supporting disabled people, those with health conditions, and others facing complex barriers to employment.

Hertfordshire employers of all sizes are invited to take part in the programme and reap the benefits, which include:

• Potential increased productivity

• Increased customer diversity

• Reduced staff turnover

• Improved work environment

• Reputational gains

Wraparound support

Individuals employed through Connect to Work will be supported by an Employment Specialist who will collaborate with the employer on induction, training, career planning and identifying reasonable adjustments.

Stronger links to support networks

Employment Specialists can direct employers to useful services, whether you are new to this space or already a Disability Confident Employer.

Recruitment support

A Connect to Work Employment Specialist will work in partnership with employers to understand the needs of your business, to match the right person to a job that aligns with their skills and goals, saving time and recruitment costs.

Inclusive practices

The Employment Specialist can support employers with practices like inclusive talent attraction, on-boarding processes and career building to facilitate the transition to a more inclusive workplace.

"There are a lot of highly skilled people out there who will work hard and are determined to succeed if you just give them a chance. By changing the recruitment methods we use, we've opened up opportunities to so many people and the benefits to us have been huge."

Kent Brushes