Connect to Work
Supporting Inclusive Employment in Hertfordshire
We’re proud to be a delivery partner for Connect to Work, a government-funded programme led by Step2Skills that helps Hertfordshire residents with disabilities, health conditions, or personal barriers into meaningful employment.
Personalised support to help you find and keep a job
Connect to Work is a free programme designed to support people into employment through tailored, one-to-one guidance. Whether you are returning to work, changing direction, or facing barriers to employment, we are here to support you every step of the way.
We are also working with local employers to promote inclusive hiring and provide practical recruitment support.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive Hertfordshire.
📞 Call: 01923 601516 or 01923 920311
📧 Email: dirin@watfordwomenscentre.org.uk or smita@watfordwomenscentre.org.uk
To register your interest, please use link below:
How it works
At the heart of Connect to Work is a simple approach: your goals come first.
You will be matched with a dedicated Employment Adviser who will work with you to:
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Understand your skills, interests, and career goals
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Identify the type of work that suits you
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Start looking for jobs early, without long delays
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Connect with employers and opportunities in your local area
We focus on real job opportunities in the community, not just classroom-based preparation.
What you will receive
Participants on the programme will receive tailored one-to-one support from a dedicated Employment Adviser, including:
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A personalised Vocational Profile and action plan based on your goals, skills, and interests
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Proactive engagement with local employers, including contacting employers on your behalf
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Identifying job opportunities that match your preferences, strengths, and ambitions
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Tailored CV and cover letter support for specific roles
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Interview preparation, including mock interviews to build confidence
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Advice on returning to work, including better-off calculations
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Access to careers guidance, skills assessments, and local opportunities
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Support with practical needs, such as travel planning
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Sensitive and confidential support tailored to your personal circumstances
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Ongoing in-work support for up to 12 months to help you settle and succeed
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Support with career progression and development once in work
In-work support
Our support doesn’t stop when you get a job.
We will continue working with you and, where appropriate, your employer to help you:
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Settle into your role
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Build confidence and skills
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Address any challenges early
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Sustain and progress in employment
Who we support
We support individuals who may face additional challenges in accessing employment, including those:
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Returning to work after a break
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Managing health or personal circumstances
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Looking for flexible or part-time work
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Seeking a fresh start
- Employment Support for Domestic Abuse Survivors
Employment Support for Domestic Abuse Survivors
At Watford Women’s Centre, we offer specialist, trauma-informed support to help individuals rebuild confidence and move towards safe, sustainable employment.
Our Employment Advisers work closely with our wider support services to ensure you receive
joined-up, holistic support, including:
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A safe and confidential environment to explore your employment goals
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Support that is paced around your individual circumstances and readiness
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Understanding of the complex barriers that may affect your journey into work
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Close working with our Domestic Abuse support team, where appropriate
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Practical support to help you move towards financial independence and stability
You do not need to disclose anything you are not comfortable sharing. Our approach is always
person-centred, respectful, and led by you.
Get started
If you’re ready to take the next step towards employment, we’re here to help.
You can:
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Speak to a member of our team
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Be referred by a professional
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Or refer yourself directly
