Connect to Work is an employment support programme funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
The Forward Trust delivers the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) element of the programme. We work closely with community partners to help people overcome recruitment and job selection barriers, build confidence among job seekers, and move candidates into sustainable and suitable work.
The programme is for people who:
Live in North of East Kent
Are aged 18+
Not currently receiving intensive support from another employment programme
Disabled, living with a long-term health condition, or part of one of the following priority groups:
You might consider using the Connect to Work programme if you are:
Currently unemployed or economically inactive
Unable to remain in work in previous roles
An ex-offender or have lived experience of the criminal justice system
A carer and/or former carer
Homeless or without secure living or accommodation
An Armed Forces veteran
In recovery from substance misuse
A refugee or have refugee status (including eligible national schemes)
Survivor of domestic abuse
A victim of modern slavery
If you aren’t eligible for IPS support, we’ll ensure you’re referred to the right provider in your area.
Our Approach
We use a Place–Train–Maintain model, proven to help people with complex needs into sustainable employment.
1. Place
Your Employment Specialist gets to know you, your strengths, and your goals through vocational profiling. Together you’ll develop a realistic plan for work.
2. Train
We help you prepare for roles that match your interests, skills and long-term wellbeing. Support can include improving confidence, building employability skills, connecting you with wraparound community services, and introducing you to the right employers.
3. Maintain
Once you start work, we continue to support you both on and off the job – ensuring you settle in well, manage challenges and thrive in your role. Support continues for up to 12 months after starting work.
What Support You’ll Receive
A dedicated Employment Specialist
Personalised action planning
Support with CVs, applications, skills and confidence
Employer introductions and job matching
Ongoing in‑work support
Access to trusted local partners and community services
Flexible appointments at community hubs across Kent
We work closely with primary care networks, VCFSE organisations and integration partners such as Social Enterprise Kent to ensure you receive holistic, accessible support.
North Kent: Medway and Gravesham
Delivery hubs include The Forward Trust sites and local community partners such as Open Road, Sunlight Centre, Sun Pier Centre, family hubs and more.
East Kent: Thanet, Dover, Shepway (Folkestone & Hythe)
Support is delivered through Forward Trust hubs and community partners including local libraries, SEK hub, Caves Community Room, Marsh Community Hub and others.
We use trusted, accessible community venues to remove barriers and ensure people can engage where they feel comfortable.
We welcome self-referrals to Connect to Work from across North and East Kent, complete the form below:
Refer to the Connect to Work programme
You can also be referred by regional partners and organisations including:
Jobcentre Plus
GP or health professional
Local authority or community organisation
Substance misuse, housing or justice services
Or you can self-refer if you think this programme is right for you
Visit Us
Thanet Hub, 2nd Floor Mill Lane house, Mill Lane, Margate, Kent
Email: Connecttowork@forwardtrust.org.uk
Telephone: 01843 359916
