Portsmouth, Southampton and Isle of Wight councils have launched a £11.5 million Connect to Work programme targeting economic inactivity and supporting residents into meaningful employment across the region.
The three local authorities have formed a strategic alliance to deliver a locally adapted version of the Department for Work and Pensions’ Connect to Work initiative, designed to address unemployment challenges and help residents secure sustainable work opportunities.
This collaboration between Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council, and Isle of Wight Council creates the Solent Growth Partnership, delivering comprehensive business support, training programmes, and employment services throughout the area.
The £11.5 million investment will concentrate on supporting individuals facing health-related challenges and complex employment barriers, providing voluntary assistance tailored to coastal communities’ specific requirements. The programme will assist approximately 3,600 people across the Solent, utilising two established frameworks: Individual Placement and Support (IPS) and the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) to ensure personalised, high-standard support.
Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council and Chair of the Solent Growth Partnership, said:
“This programme is a powerful example of what can be achieved when local authorities work together to meet the real needs of our communities. Connect to Work will help residents across the Solent region overcome barriers to employment, improve wellbeing, and access opportunities that reflect the strengths of our local economy. We’re proud to be part of a partnership that puts people first and delivers lasting impact.”
Colin Rowland, Strategic Director of Community Services, Isle of Wight Council, said:
“We are thrilled to be working in partnership on the delivery of the Connect to Work programme on the Isle of Wight, with our neighbouring authorities in Southampton and Portsmouth. Delivered locally the programme aims to provide essential support to those facing the toughest barriers to employment. This programme will offer vital, tailored support to those facing challenges in the labour market, empowering them to secure sustainable employment and build better lives. The programme will build on the Island’s well established community health partnerships ensuring the continued development of employers to offer creative and accessible conditions for people to develop and grow”.
Councillor Alex Winning, Leader of Southampton City Council, said:
“Southampton City Council is proud of our collaborative working with Portsmouth City Council and Isle of Wight Council to support local people across the region into employment. Together we have developed partnerships with local employers throughout the region’s business sectors that are shaping the opportunities available to and creating meaningful pathways into work for local people.”
The scheme operates through employer partnerships and local delivery, matching training programmes and employment opportunities with genuine business requirements. It capitalises on the Solent region’s primary industries – maritime, digital technology, healthcare, and tourism – to establish long-term career pathways.
The initiative provides:
- Specialised employment services
- Professional development programmes
- Business partnership activities
- Financial advice through Better Off Calculations
- Ongoing employment support
Through alignment with the UK Government’s Connect to Work objectives, the Solent partnership aims to deliver measurable results: improving employment access, boosting regional economies, and building more inclusive communities across Portsmouth, Southampton, and the Isle of Wight.
