£15.6m Employment Support Scheme to Help West Sussex Residents Into Work

People in West Sussex who face barriers to finding or staying in work will soon be able to access tailored help through a new national employment programme.

West Sussex County Council, in partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council, has been awarded £15.6 million from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to deliver the Connect to Work programme.

The initiative — part of the government’s Get Britain Working strategy — aims to support up to 3,950 residents across the area, and around 100,000 people nationally.

Connect to Work will provide one-to-one mentoring and coaching to help people gain confidence, develop skills, and find jobs that suit them. It’s open to those who are disabled, living with a long-term health condition, or facing other barriers to employment.

Support will also be available for people already in work but at risk of losing their job, with employment advisers offering tailored help for up to 12 months.

Cllr Garry Wall, West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, said:

“We’re pleased to be part of Connect to Work, helping residents overcome obstacles to finding paid work with coaching that’s tailored to them.

“This will also help local businesses fill skills gaps with motivated people who are supported to succeed.”

Cllr Emma Daniel, Brighton & Hove City Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Youth Services, added:

“Some people across Brighton and Hove face complex barriers to work, so we’re proud to deliver personalised support that will boost employment in the city.

“Everyone deserves the chance to thrive in work, and in-work support is a vital step toward a more inclusive and fair local economy.”

Applications to join Connect to Work will open in November 2025.

More information is available on the West Sussex County Council and Brighton & Hove City Council websites.