Elevate Employment Services is delighted to announce that it has been awarded Connect to Work contracts in North and West Dorset, delivering both Individual Placement and Support (IPS) and the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF).

Connect to Work is a voluntary, Department for Work and Pensions–funded programme designed to tackle economic inactivity by supporting disabled people, people with health conditions, and individuals facing complex barriers to employment. Delivered locally across Dorset, the programme will provide personalised, evidence‑based support to help people find and sustain paid employment in the open labour market.

 

The service is built around the internationally recognised “place, train and maintain” supported employment model. Through IPS, Connect to Work supports people who benefit from integrated employment and health‑related support, while SEQF provides more intensive, tailored assistance for people with learning disabilities, neurodivergent people and care‑experienced adults. In both models, individuals receive one‑to‑one support from an Employment Specialist, from understanding their strengths and aspirations through to securing work and thriving in their role.

 

Through this contract award, Elevate Employment Services will work in partnership with Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, along with health services, employers and community organisations to deliver high‑quality supported employment across Dorset, helping residents access meaningful work and supporting employers to build inclusive workplaces.

 

Ian Ross, Chief Executive Officer of Elevate Employment Services, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded Connect to Work contracts for both IPS and SEQF in North and West Dorset. With a history in Dorset dating back a decade, this is a hugely important programme that aligns perfectly with Elevate’s mission to create inclusive employment opportunities for people who face significant barriers to work. We’re proud to bring our expertise in supported employment to Dorset and look forward to working closely with partners and employers to help people not just find jobs, but build sustainable, fulfilling careers.”

To find out more call 01305 261626 or email jo.thomson@elevate-employment.co.uk