A new, voluntary supported employment programme has launched to support over 800 residents across Torbay — including Torquay, Paignton and Brixham — who face health challenges or disabilities when looking for work. The initiative, known as Connect to Work, aims to help people find and stay in employment through person-centred coaching and tailored job placements.
Led by Torbay Council in partnership with Devon County Council and Plymouth City Council, the scheme integrates specialist employment advisers into primary care settings, placing advisers directly within GP surgeries. That integration is intended to make it easier for residents with long-term illnesses or mental health challenges to access career advice in a familiar setting alongside health appointments.
The programme is voluntary and open to residents aged 18 or over (16 or over in exceptional circumstances) who want to work but need extra help to overcome complex personal barriers. Participants receive one-to-one support from a work coach to find roles that suit their needs, with particular focus on local sectors such as health and social care, hospitality and construction. Advisors also provide ongoing in-work support to help people retain employment.
Connect to Work in the Devon, Plymouth and Torbay area is backed by £22.7 million from the Department for Work and Pensions under the UK Government’s Get Britain Working programme. The scheme forms part of the wider Get Devon, Plymouth and Torbay Working Plan (2025–2027), which seeks to better align social care, health services and the local labour market.
Councillor Chris Lewis, Torbay Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said the programme would provide personalised support to help residents into sustainable work and encouraged eligible people to make contact. The local delivery partners in Torbay are Eat That Frog CIC and I Can Do That! CIC, working with health partners to deliver the service and provide ongoing support once participants are in work.
