Labour Government invests £11.7 million to help 2,750 Cumbrians into work

Thousands of people in Cumbria who are sick, disabled, or face complex barriers to work will receive personalised support to get into good jobs, thanks to a £11.7 million investment for the county from Labour’s Connect to Work programme.

The funding – part of a £167 million national expansion and a £1 billion UK-wide plan – will deliver tailored employment support to 2,750 people across Cumbria.

Connect to Work is designed and delivered locally, empowering communities to shape the support that works best for them. It can fund a range of initiatives such as embedding job advisers in GP surgeries, offering interview and confidence-building workshops, helping with affordable childcare, and providing ongoing coaching for both jobseekers and employers.

The programme treats employment as part of holistic care – connecting health and work to improve lives, boost local economies, and tackle poverty.

The funding has been welcomed by the county’s MPs.

Josh MacAlister MP (Whitehaven & Workington) said:

“This investment is about giving people in Cumbria a fair shot. Far too many residents have been locked out of the job market because of illness or barriers beyond their control.

“Connect to Work will help people rebuild confidence, develop new skills, and find meaningful work that fits their lives. It’s a hand up, not a handout – helping people fulfil their potential and strengthening our communities in the process.”

Markus Campbell-Savours MP (Penrith & Solway) said:

“Our area has huge talent and determination – but for too long, too many have been written off. This Labour government is changing that.

“By investing in things like embedding job advisers in GP surgeries and working with local health and community services, Connect to Work will make sure support reaches people where they are, breaking down barriers that have held them back.”

Michelle Scrogham MP (Barrow & Furness) said:

“This £11.7 million investment is a real boost for our county. It will help people who want to work but need extra support to get there – whether that’s confidence-building, interview practice or help with childcare.

“It’s a local approach shaped by our communities, making sure no one in Cumbria is left behind as we get Britain working again.”