Maximus has secured a three-year contract to deliver the Connect to Work programme across Lancashire, supporting more than 1,300 residents over three years to move into sustained, meaningful employment.
Delivered on behalf of the Lancashire Combined County Authority, Maximus will deliver the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) strand, providing tailored, person-centred support for people facing complex barriers to work.
Connect to Work supports people who are out of work, including those with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or other challenges, as well as those already in work who are at risk of losing their job.
In Lancashire, the programme will focus on adults aged 18 and over who face significant barriers to employment. This includes people with experience of the criminal justice system, caring responsibilities, homelessness, armed forces service, substance dependency, care experience, migration, domestic abuse, or other disadvantages.
Maximus will use the “place, train, and maintain” Supported Employment model to prioritise matching people to the right job, providing tailored training, and delivering in-work support, working closely with local partners to provide joined-up, holistic support. Employers across Lancashire will create accessible job opportunities and build sustainable pathways into work by engaging directly with the programme.
Cliff Graham, Senior Vice President at Maximus UK, said: “Supporting more people into work and addressing entrenched economic inactivity are priorities for both national and devolved government, and we know the transformative impact that effective employment support can have on people and communities. We’re pleased to be partnering with Lancashire Combined County Authority to deliver Connect to Work, utilising our extensive experience of supporting those with health conditions and other barriers to employment to find and progress in work.”
