Connect to Work Supported Employment Programme

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council is seeking providers to deliver a new Dorset wide supported employment service 'Connect to Work Supported Employment Service in Dorset'. Connect to Work is a new government-funded programme launched by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It aims to help individuals who are economically inactive, unemployed, or at risk of losing their jobs due to disabilities, long-term health conditions or other complex barriers to employment. The program provides targeted support to eligible participants and employers, assisting participants in finding and maintaining good quality employment. The programme will be managed and maintained by Skills & Learning Adult Community Education (S&LACE) on behalf of BCP Council and Dorset Council. The tender opportunity is split into 2 different lots: • Lot 1: Individual Placement and Support (IPS) delivery for any eligible out of work or in work participant • Lot 2: Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) delivery for adults with Learning Disabilities or complex barriers to employment Anticipated start date is June 2026. The contract will be for three years and 10 months with the option to extend for a further 2 years (1+1)