The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that thousands of claimants are set to receive extra earnings in a payment “first” through its flagship Connect to Work programme. In June, the latest month for which figures are available, 4,100 Out-of-Work support participants achieved First Earnings from employment, according to DWP statistics.
Connect to Work is a key part of the Pathways to Work offer, designed to help disabled people and those with health conditions into employment. It complements other existing government-funded employment support and operates as a voluntary, locally led Supported Employment programme.
Programme referrals and starts
Between April 2025 and June 2026, 29,000 individuals were referred to the programme, and 25,000 participants started on it, DWP figures show. Of those 25,000 starts, 22,000 (87%) are receiving or have received Out-of-Work support, while 3,200 (13%) are receiving or have received In-Work Retention Support.
The programme targets individuals with disabilities, health conditions and other complex issues, helping them overcome barriers to employment and move closer to finding meaningful, sustainable work.
Age breakdown and support model
DWP statistics indicate that between April 2025 and June 2026, 26% of starts were aged 16-24. Participants in Connect to Work are assigned a dedicated specialist employment support adviser who works alongside them to understand their career goals and address specific barriers to employment.
Advisers support participants in having conversations with prospective employers, removing the need to navigate complex application processes. The employment adviser also works with both the employer and the participant to ensure a smooth transition into work and an inclusive workplace environment.
Future expectations
A DWP spokesperson said: “Thanks to the action we’ve taken, thousands of disabled people are already being supported into work through Connect to Work.”
The spokesperson added: “The programme is still in its early stages – with some areas only recently opening their doors – but we expect even more people to be helped into work, with 300,000 supported by the programme by the end of the parliament.”
