The new government's: "Get Britain Working" white paper sets out a different approach to the employment support system, based on the unique needs of local communities. This work also links to the central mission of driving economic growth, by ensuring that there is a pipeline of skilled workers to fuel business success. This will also support the long term government ambition of an 80% employment rate. 

As a result the Berkshire councils are working together to understand the priorities and concerns of businesses, as well as to introduce the opportunities around Connect to Work and get your feedback. With this in mind, we are asking:

1. For your views

2. If your business could be an employer champion and support people facing barriers into work? 

Connect to Work is one of the government programmes in England and Wales underpinning this ambition. It is designed to help disabled people, those with health conditions and people with complex barriers to employment, to find sustainable work. 

We will be working closely with the DWP, health services and local businesses to identify suitable employment opportunities for candidates.  We hope that by working closely with employers we can not only create meaningful work opportunities but that we can help businesses across Berkshire address their staff shortages.  

Did you know that by providing a flexible and inclusive workplace you can:

Reduce recruitment and increase staff retention

Boost staff morale and employee engagement

Tap into alternative markets (e.g. the purple pound) and deliver against your corporate social responsibilities

We would be very grateful if you could provide your expertise and knowledge by completing the short survey below. The survey should take no more than 10 -15 minutes to complete and responses will be used to inform programmes of business and economic growth in Berkshire including the Connect to Work programme.