Adur & Worthing Councils set to launch new employment support programme
Released: Thursday, 26 March 2026
A new scheme that will help out-of-work residents secure and keep employment is set to be rolled out by Adur & Worthing Councils.
The Connect to Work programme is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and was first launched by West Sussex County Council last year.
Connect to Work aims to support economically inactive and long-term unemployed residents, particularly those with health conditions or disabilities, to get into work and to stay in work through tailored support.
The joint strategic committee yesterday agreed to us becoming one of the first authorities to partner with the county council to deliver the scheme locally.
Funding from the DWP would pay for two employment advisors to provide personalised, one-to-one employment support, including working with individuals to identify employment goals, providing practical assistance such as CV development and interview preparation, and helping residents to access suitable job opportunities.
The programme addresses some of the hidden barriers to employment, like low confidence, caring responsibilities, or digital exclusion, through consistent, one-to-one mentorship that existing networks do not have the capacity to provide.
If the proposal is approved at the next meeting of both full councils, staff would work with local employers to identify employment opportunities for participants in the scheme, as well as with partner organisations for additional support or training.
Support doesn't stop when residents find work, as advisors will continue to provide in-work help and advice to help participants sustain employment and address any barriers that may arise.
The programme ties in with our proactive approach to supporting residents with the cost of living and issues like homelessness, representing a further shift away from crisis management to earlier intervention and greater partnership working.
Employment advisors would work alongside colleagues in our Proactive team, as well as the wellbeing programme and homelessness prevention services. This wraparound approach is designed to help ensure residents receive coordinated support addressing health, wellbeing, housing and employment barriers.
Councillor Becky Allinson, Adur's deputy leader, said:
“This is a really valuable programme that will provide personalised support for residents who want to work but are facing multiple barriers to employment. With in-work support available too, it addresses a gap in existing provision and means that participants are more likely to achieve long-term success.”
Councillor Dom Ford, Worthing's cabinet member for communities, culture and leisure, said:
“We know that there are many complex factors that stop people entering the workforce, but by linking up the Connect to Work scheme with our existing initiatives, and building relationships with employers and partners, we can tailor support to people's individual circumstances and the specific needs of our communities.”
To find out more, see:
(PR26-037)
Page last updated: 26 March 2026