Connect to Work Programme

Hartlepool Borough Council (the Council) has been appointed as the Lead Body by Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) for the Connect to Work Programme. As such, the Council is responsible for ensuring successful management and delivery of the programme across Tees Valley. Connect to Work is a voluntary local support employment programme launched by the Department for Works and Pensions (DWP) and funded by the UK Government. The contract will provide support disabled people, people with health conditions and individuals with complex barriers to move into and maintain employment.

The delivery has been split into 4 Lots, and the Council are seeking to contract with a single Lead Provider for each Lot.

Lot 1 - Tees Valley (SEQF (Supported Employment Quality Framework) Only)

To commission a Lead Provider for the delivery of high-quality Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) provision across the whole of Tees Valley - Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland, and Stockton‑on‑Tees. This focuses on supporting disabled people, those with health conditions and those with complex barriers to employment to find sustainable work. The Lead Provider will build and manage a strong consortium, ensuring consistent high-quality delivery, fidelity to the SEQF model, and effective engagement. With 502 expected starts, this Lot represents the SEQF element of the Tees Valley Connect to Work Programme.

Lot 2 - Darlington & Stockton‑on‑Tees (IPS - Individual Placement and Support Only)

To commission a Lead Provider to deliver Individual Placement and Support (IPS) services within Darlington and Stockton‑on‑Tees. This will target eligible individuals who require intensive, personalised employment support so they can progress into sustainable work. Delivery must follow the nationally recognised IPS model, with a strong focus on rapid job search, integrated support, and in‑work retention. The Lead Provider will build and manage a strong consortium, ensuring consistent high-quality delivery, and effective engagement. With 452 expected starts, this Lot represents a key element of the Tees Valley Connect to Work Programme.

Lot 3 - Middlesbrough & Redcar & Cleveland (IPS - Individual Placement and Support Only)

To commission a Lead Provider to deliver Individual Placement & Support (IPS) services within Middlesbrough and Redcar & Cleveland. This will target eligible individuals who require intensive, personalised employment support so they can progress into sustainable work. Delivery must follow the nationally recognised IPS model, with a strong focus on rapid job search, integrated support, and in‑work retention. The Lead Provider will build and manage a strong consortium, ensuring consistent high-quality delivery, and effective engagement. With 752 expected starts, this Lot represents a key element of the Tees Valley Connect to Work Programme.

Lot 4 - Hartlepool (IPS - Individual Placement and Support Only)

To commission a Lead Provider to deliver Individual Placement and Support (IPS) services within Hartlepool. This will target eligible individuals who require intensive, personalised employment support so they can progress into sustainable work. Delivery must follow the nationally recognised IPS model, with a strong focus on rapid job search, integrated support, and in‑work retention. The Lead Provider will build and manage a strong consortium, ensuring consistent high-quality delivery, and effective engagement. With 302 expected starts, this Lot represents a key element of the Tees Valley Connect to Work Programme.