More than 1,000 Richmond residents have moved into training and sustainable local jobs thanks to the borough's flagship Richmond Work Match programme, which this week celebrates five years of supporting people into employment.

The free Council-run service connects residents with local businesses to fill vacancies, boost skills and help people secure long-term, good-quality jobs close to home.

To mark the milestone, the Council has launched a new initiative, Connect to Work, aimed at helping even more residents overcome barriers to employment, particularly those with long-term health conditions, disabilities or other challenges.

Councillor Phil Giesler, Lead Member for Economy and Business, said: "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.

"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."

Since its launch in 2020, Richmond Work Match has helped residents of all ages and backgrounds move from unemployment into work, while also supporting new and growing businesses to recruit locally.

Both Richmond Work Match and Connect to Work play a key role in the borough's long-term employment strategy, helping residents access jobs in fast-growing sectors such as health and care, digital technology and the green economy.

Together, these industries form part of a £38 billion south west London economy, home to more than 55,000 businesses and 550,000 jobs.

Cllr Piers Allen, Chair of the Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Services Committee, added: "Employment is about more than income.

"It's about confidence, purpose and wellbeing. Connect to Work will make a real difference to residents who want to work but face barriers, helping them build confidence, independence and better health."

Residents can learn more about Richmond Work Match and the new Connect to Work initiative via the Richmond Council website.

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