The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled a groundbreaking £338 million investment aimed at transforming employment opportunities for disabled and sick people in the UK.
Announced in September 2025, this marks one of the largest single-year allocations ever dedicated to disability employment. The funding will support over 85,000 individuals initially, with a goal of reaching up to 300,000 people over the next five years.
This initiative, known as Connect to Work, represents a major step toward removing barriers, providing personalised job support, and empowering people with long-term health conditions to access meaningful, secure employment.
Key Components of the Investment
1. Personalised Work Coaching
- Recruitment and training of specialist Work Coaches
- One-on-one guidance, CV and interview support
- Tailored job matching to individual abilities and health needs
2. Enhanced Access to Work Support
- Increased grant levels for workplace adjustments
- Faster application processing times
- Streamlined employer support to reduce hiring risks
3. Local Authority and NHS Partnerships
- Integration of healthcare and employment services
- Vocational advice in GP surgeries
- Linking rehabilitation programmes with training opportunities
4. Regional Targeting and Levelling Up
- Focus on areas with high disability unemployment, especially in the North and Midlands
- Funding for community-led employment hubs and mobile job coaching units
5. Support for Self-Employment
- Business mentoring, start-up grants, and flexible benefit arrangements
- Backing for disabled-led social enterprises and small businesses
6. Digital Accessibility Improvements
- Upgraded DWP online platforms for screen-reader compatibility, simplified forms, and video-call options
- Easier access to training, job search, and support services
Key Details of the £338 Million Plan
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Connect to Work |
| Total Funding | £338 million |
| Areas Covered | 15 regions across England |
| Immediate Beneficiaries | Over 85,000 people |
| Long-Term Goal (5 years) | Support up to 300,000 individuals |
| Example Allocations | Central London (£71.9m), South Yorkshire (£35.3m), Greater Essex (£30.7m) |
| Target Groups | Disabled individuals, long-term sick, complex barriers |
| Part of Wider Plan | £3.8 billion Plan for Change |
Expected Outcomes
- Creation of secure and sustainable jobs for disabled and sick people
- Reduction in economic inactivity across the UK
- Improved productivity and local economic growth
- Increased workforce diversity and innovation
- Better transition from benefits to employment through flexible tapering
Challenges and Considerations
- Ensuring support continues after job placement
- Monitoring the quality and sustainability of jobs created
- Achieving effective coordination between local councils, employers, and the NHS
- Addressing the fear of losing benefits when returning to work
The £338 million investment by the DWP is a bold step towards creating an inclusive and accessible workforce in the UK.
By focusing on personalised coaching, regional support, digital upgrades, and strong partnerships with employers and the NHS, this initiative promises to remove long-standing barriers for disabled and sick individuals.
If successful, it could transform lives, boost productivity, and strengthen communities, proving that disability should never be a barrier to opportunity.
FAQs
Who can access the new support?
Disabled people, those with long-term health conditions, or individuals facing complex barriers to work can apply or be referred.
How many people will benefit from the scheme?
Over 85,000 people initially, with a target of supporting up to 300,000 people over five years.
What areas are receiving the largest funding?
Central London, Local London Sub-Regional Partnership, South Yorkshire, and Greater Essex are among the top-funded regions.
