Connect to Work
Ready for a new start?
The Connect to Work programme is here to help residents in Hackney with disabilities, health conditions, or other unique challenges, find and maintain a great job.
We also provide crucial support to individuals currently in work but at risk of losing their jobs
Get free, one-to-one support from local Hackney Employment Specialists.
Our Approach: Personalised and Local
Our programme is based on an individual model of success, your dedicated Hackney Employment adviser is here to work with you every step of the way, focusing on your strengths and goals.
What We Offer
We provide comprehensive support designed to make work possible and sustainable:
- Finding Your Path: We start by focusing on what you can do and what you want to do. We create a tailored plan, craft professional CVs, and practice interviews so you feel fully confident.
- Connecting to Local Jobs: You’ll gain access to our exclusive network of inclusive Hackney employers. We will match you with decent jobs in growing sectors like Construction, Digital, and Green businesses.
- Wrap-Around Support: We remove barriers by providing practical help like better-off benefit calculations, travel planning, and direct links to essential health and wellbeing services.
- Long-Term Success: Support doesn’t stop on your first day. We provide ongoing, dedicated coaching once you’ve started your job to ensure your long-term career progression and stability.
Who Can We Support?
To be eligible for our tailored support, you must be a
- Resident of Hackney, aged 18 or over.
- Not currently participating in another DWP-funded employment programme.
- Unemployed, or employed and at risk of losing your job (must be in the role for at least 3 months, unless on a zero-hour contract).
We Also Provide Support For:
- Individuals with experience of the justice system and young people at risk of involvement in serious violence.
- Carers (both current and former) and care leavers.
- Veterans, reservists, and partners of HM Armed Forces personnel.
- Refugees, asylum seekers, and survivors of domestic abuse or modern slavery.
- Individuals who have experienced homelessness or a history of substance dependency.
The Local Advantage
- In-House Experts: Our service is delivered directly by Hackney Council’s Employment, Skills and Adult Learning service, ensuring trust, stability and deep local knowledge.
- Three Local Hubs: Find us in your neighbourhood at our three convenient local hubs: Hoxton, Woodberry Down, and Gascoyne.
- No Wrong Door: we’ll assess your needs and ensure you get the right support, whether you need immediate job searching help or intensive, specialist guidance.
Ready to connect?
supportedemployment@hackney.gov.uk
Page last reviewed: October 8, 2025