Richmond Work Match Marks 5 Years Supporting Local Employment Success

Key Points

• Richmond Work Match has supported over 1,000 local residents into training and sustainable employment since launching in 2020.
• The free Council-run programme connects residents with local businesses to fill vacancies, boost skills, and secure long-term jobs.
• To mark the five-year milestone, Richmond Council launched a new initiative called Connect to Work.
• Connect to Work focuses on helping residents face barriers to employment, especially those with long-term health conditions or disabilities.
• The programme supports the borough’s wider economic goals by targeting fast-growing sectors such as health and care, digital technology, and the green economy.
• Richmond Work Match and Connect to Work contribute to the £38 billion South West London economy, supporting over 55,000 businesses and 550,000 jobs.
• Councillor Phil Giesler and Councillor Piers Allen emphasise the importance of these initiatives for building a fairer economy and improving residents’ wellbeing.

What is Richmond Work Match and what has it achieved over five years?

Richmond Work Match, the flagship employment support programme run by Richmond Council, has celebrated its fifth anniversary by helping more than 1,000 residents into sustainable, locally based jobs. As reported by Richmond Council’s official statement, the free service is designed to bridge the gap between job seekers and local employers, ensuring vacancies are filled while helping residents develop valuable skills.

Councillor Phil Giesler, Lead Member for Economy and Business, highlighted the success of the programme, stating:

“Richmond Work Match is one of the borough’s real success stories. It helps residents into good jobs, supports local businesses to grow, and builds a stronger, fairer economy.”

He noted that the programme supports residents from all backgrounds in securing long-term employment close to home.

Since its inception in 2020, Richmond Work Match has become a cornerstone of the borough’s economic strategy, playing a key role in connecting unemployed residents with new opportunities in sectors that are vital to the local and regional economy.

How does the new ‘Connect to Work’ initiative expand support for Richmond residents?

To celebrate the five-year milestone, Richmond Council launched Connect to Work, an initiative aimed at widening access to employment support in the borough. Connect to Work specifically addresses the difficulties faced by residents living with long-term health conditions, disabilities, or other barriers that can prevent them from finding work.

Councillor Giesler explained,

“Connect to Work takes this even further, ensuring everyone, whatever their circumstances, has access to the right support, skills and opportunities to succeed. It’s a great example of how we’re helping residents benefit from growth opportunities in the borough and across South London.”

This new initiative complements Richmond Work Match by providing tailored assistance to those who might otherwise be excluded from the labour market, enhancing inclusivity and equity in employment.

What sectors and economic impact do these programmes target in Richmond?

Richmond Work Match and Connect to Work align their efforts with the borough’s long-term employment strategy, concentrating on sectors with substantial growth potential. These include health and care, digital technology, and the green economy, all significant drivers in South West London’s economic landscape.

The combined economic footprint of these sectors is substantial. According to Richmond Council, South West London boasts a £38 billion economy, hosting more than 55,000 businesses and around 550,000 jobs. Programmes like Richmond Work Match are vital in linking local talent with opportunities that contribute to this broader economic ecosystem.

Why is employment support considered more than just about income according to local leaders?

Cllr Piers Allen, Chair of the Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Services Committee, spoke on the deeper impact employment has on people’s lives. As he stated:

“Employment is about more than income. It’s about confidence, purpose and wellbeing.”

He believes that Connect to Work will significantly benefit residents who want to work but face challenges, by helping them build confidence, independence, and better health.

This perspective highlights that employment programmes not only bolster economic development but also foster social inclusion and personal empowerment among residents.

How can residents access Richmond Work Match and Connect to Work?

Richmond residents interested in these employment services can find more information and sign up via the Richmond Council website. Both Richmond Work Match and Connect to Work are accessible free of charge, reflecting the Council’s commitment to supporting local residents in improving their employment prospects.