URL: https://democracy.adur-worthing.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1371

Decision Maker: Deputy CEO & Corporate Director for Housing & Communities

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: To enter into a Service Level Agreement with West Sussex County Council for the delivery of the Adur & Worthing Connect to Work Programme, in accordance with the terms of the Department for Work and Pensions grant funding, for the period April 2026 to April 2030. The decision enables the Council to formally participate in the Connect to Work programme which is a national scheme designed to deliver and deliver locally tailored employment support to economically inactive residents.   The programme is fully funded through a £521,615 grant from West Sussex County Council (funded by the Department for Work and Pensions) and aligns with the Councils’ priorities as Fair Councils in relation to Housing and Prevention priorities, by supporting vulnerable residents, improving wellbeing, and increasing economic participation.   Entering into the Service Level Agreement ensures that the Council can meet the programme’s performance and delivery requirements as set out by the accountable body, West Sussex County Council. The option of not entering into the Service Level Agreement and therefore not delivering the programme was considered.   This option was not recommended as it would result in missed opportunities to support economically inactive residents and would leave a gap in provision that existing services are not resourced to fill. The programme provides a personalised, integrated and sustained approach to employment support, including in-work support, which is not available through existing provision.   Declining the agreement would also mean the Council would not benefit from the external grant funding available to deliver these outcomes.

Date of Decision: April 13, 2026