26 Mar 2026
The Forward Trust has secured the new Connect to Work programme in East and North Kent. From 1 April 2026, The Forward Trust, in partnership with Social Enterprise Kent, will launch the next phase of this important initiative. The programme has been commissioned by Kent County Council in partnership with Medway Council, with funding from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Connect to Work is designed to help people overcome barriers to employment through tailored, person‑centred interventions. Its core aim is to deliver high‑quality supported employment services that lead to sustainable, long‑term job outcomes.
This new phase builds on the strong foundations laid by The Education People in the first part of the programme. The Forward Trust will deliver the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) service across both East and North Kent. The organisation already has a strong track record across employability, IPS, adult skills, substance misuse, recovery support, housing, and probation services in Kent. Collaboration between these services—alongside Social Enterprise Kent, local VCSE partners, public sector organisations, and local employers—has already created more integrated support for participants, improving both wellbeing and employability.
“We are delighted to have been awarded the Connect to Work programmes in East and North Kent. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to support people facing complex barriers, and it builds on our existing services and our exciting partnership with Social Enterprise Kent. By working closely with the wider team, we have a real opportunity to make a meaningful difference across North and East Kent—helping individuals unlock their potential and thrive in employment and in their lives.” - Asi Panditharatna, Executive Director
"We are looking forward to working with The Forward Trust in delivering Connect to Work. They have demonstrated a real commitment to support residents in their allocated areas, an in-depth knowledge of local services and a strong understanding of the contract." - Claire Wray, Programme Manager (Skills and Employment), Kent County Council
About The Forward Trust: The Forward Trust is a national charity with over 30 years’ experience supporting people to overcome addiction, break cycles of offending, and build positive, productive lives. Its services include drug and alcohol support, mental‑health support, employability, enterprise, adult skills and social enterprise programmes, housing and resettlement, and peer‑led community networks.
About Social Enterprise Kent: Social Enterprise Kent (SEK) is a long‑established not‑for‑profit social enterprise that has been supporting communities, individuals, and organisations across Kent since 1985. SEK's work focuses on improving wellbeing, strengthening local communities, and helping people and organisations thrive.
