PARTNERS involved in the Connect to Work programme across Devon recently gathered at a special event to support the rollout of the initiative.

Connect to Work is being led by Devon County Council (DCC) in partnership with Plymouth City Council and Torbay Council.

It aims to improve access to employment, health and skills support for over 6,000 people in the region to help reduce economic inactivity.

The scheme is being backed with £22.7 million from the Department of Work and Pensions.

The event at the Future Skills Centre in Exeter brought together a range of organisations delivering the programme, including Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council, Torbay Council, Learn Devon, Eat That Frog, I Can Do That, United Response, Crystal Pathways, and Pluss.

It was an opportunity for partners to align their approaches and strengthen relationships to ensure a seamless, high-quality experience for every participant accessing the programme, says DCC.

The Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority retains strategic oversight of Connect to Work, ensuring the programme aligns with the ambitions of the Get Devon, Plymouth and Torbay Working Plan and the region’s Local Growth Plan.

Together, these plans set out a unified approach to reducing economic inactivity, tackling labour shortages, and connecting residents to the skills and jobs needed to drive long-term, inclusive growth.

The Combined County Authority’s oversight helps ensure Connect to Work plays a coherent role within that wider regional ambition.

For more information about Connect to Work and details on support available across the region, visit Devon County Council’s website.