Finding the right people for hard-to-fill roles is one of the biggest challenges facing employers today. With around 728,000 vacancies across the UK, many businesses are struggling to fill skills gaps. But what if there was a ready pool of motivated, loyal candidates – backed by expert support to ensure they succeed in your business?
Connect to Work is a new supported employment programme funded by UK government, and delivered by Surrey County Council. It connects employers with those who want to work but face barriers to employment. The scheme includes people living with disabilities, health conditions, and those experiencing other significant challenges in accessing the job market.
Compelling business case
Research by Mencap found that workers with learning disabilities often have no whole-day absences, far fewer late arrivals and significantly higher job loyalty than the UK average.
And according to a broad review by CBM UK, inclusive employment – correctly supported – can lead to equal or greater productivity, lower absenteeism, better attendance and stronger safety records. The review also found workplace accommodations for disabled staff often benefit the wider workforce (e.g. flexible work, better wellbeing support), improving overall staff retention and company resilience.
All this leads to lower staff turnover, which reduces costs associated with recruitment, onboarding and training. And sectors that struggle to recruit, such as retail, hospitality, social care and logistics, often match well to the skills and flexibility offered by disabled or learning-disabled candidates.
Tap into talent
By partnering with Connect to Work, you’ll also tap into a substantial, under-utilised talent pool. Research shows that 86% of people with learning disabilities who aren’t working want a job. These candidates are particularly well-suited to roles involving routine tasks, warehousing, retail, and basic admin – exactly the positions many employers struggle to fill.
Tangible business benefits
And the benefits extend beyond just filling job roles. Businesses that embrace inclusive hiring report improved workplace morale, better team cohesion and a more empathetic, supportive culture. Your reputation strengthens too, building community trust that’s invaluable for customer-facing businesses. Inclusive hiring also enhances your employer brand by boosting your evidence of social value, and can help your business secure contracts where diversity and social impact matter.
How to get involved
Connect to Work is completely free to employers of any size, matching Connect to Work’s supported candidates to your vacancies at minimum wage or above.
Your dedicated Employment Specialist will help with job matching, supporting the application process, and providing ongoing workplace support for as long as needed – ensuring success for everyone involved.
If you’re ready to build a stronger workforce, get in touch at STEPSurrey@surreycc.gov.uk to discuss how Connect to Work can benefit your business.
