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A Connect to Work employment specialist at Southdown supports a client in a relaxed one-to-one meeting. The two are seated at a round table with notes and paperwork, in a bright, welcoming space with natural light and plants in the background.
Service Type: Mental Health and Employment Support
Service Location: East Sussex

Connect to Work

Connect to Work is delivered across East Sussex by a number of specialist providers who support people facing a range of challenges – from long-term health conditions and neuro-differences, to homelessness, caring responsibilities, or experiences of the criminal justice system. The programme is funded by Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Southdown delivers the Connect to Work service for people with mental health needs, bringing together our long-standing expertise in mental health and employment support to help people move forward in their recovery and working lives.

How we can support you

Our dedicated employment specialists work alongside you to understand your needs, strengths, and ambitions. We take time to get to know you, then help you:

  • Explore your goals and what kind of work suits you
  • Build a personalised Employment Action Plan
  • Find and apply for suitable jobs
  • Assess ongoing in-work and off the job support
  • Navigate conversations with employers to access both on and off the job support
  • Link up with health services and other support systems

Our approach is person-centred, flexible, and focused on your wellbeing every step of the way.

Who is Connect to Work for?

Connect to Work is for adults (18+) in East Sussex who want to work but face challenges in getting or keeping a job due to mental health needs or other complex circumstances.

To apply for Connect to Work, you must: 

  • Be 18 or older 
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK 
  • Have settled UK status and access to public funds (benefits) 
  • Not be enrolled in a DWP employment programme

Take a closer look at who can apply and find out if Connect to Work is right for you.

Who can apply?

Ready to express your interest in applying to Connect to work? Do it through the button below:

Apply for Connect to Work

Find out more:

Talk to the team and find out how Connect to Work can support you, please email: ConnectToWork@eastsussex.gov.uk

Southdown is the lead provider for UOK mental health and wellbeing networks in Brighton & Hove and East Sussex. Learn more about our Mental Health and Employment Support services through this link.