hello@futuresadvice.org
Futures
57 Maid Marian Way
Nottingham
NG1 6GE
21st November, 2025
Reading time: Two minutes
At Futures, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to build a brighter future, no matter the challenges they face. For many people, health issues, financial pressures, and personal circumstances can make the journey to employment feel overwhelming. That’s why we launched the EMCCA Connect to Work Triage Pilot, an innovative project designed to bridge the gap between health and employment support in a way that’s simple, accessible, and effective.
This pilot isn’t just about finding jobs; it’s about creating a holistic pathway that considers the whole person. By integrating expert careers advice with social prescribing, we’re helping individuals take practical steps toward work while improving their wellbeing. Every referral begins with listening: understanding what matters most to the individual and then building a plan that feels achievable and empowering. Based on the idea of “no wrong door” when accessing employment and skills support from a community/health setting, it’s a model that’s already making a real difference in people’s lives.
The Connect to Work Triage Pilot brings together a network of partners, including EMCCA, Nottinghamshire County Council, Rosewood Primary Care Network, Nottinghamshire ICB, StandGuide, West Notts College, and Nottingham Trent University. This collaboration means there’s a pathway for everyone seeking help, no matter your work readiness, skill levels, or employment status. Whether someone needs training, confidence-building, or specialist advice, we can connect them to the right support quickly and seamlessly.
Our approach is rooted in simplicity and accessibility.
It’s a joined-up system that reduces stress and opens doors, because we know that employment isn’t just about earning a wage; it’s about restoring confidence, independence, and hope.
Tracey came to Futures during a tough time, struggling with anxiety, depression, and financial worries. With the help of our triage team, she found a supportive space to rebuild her confidence. Together, they created a plan focused on her wellbeing and long-term goals. Tracey began applying for roles that matched her strengths and soon found purpose in a position at a local Hospital. Inspired by her experience, she even encouraged a friend to seek support with us.
After returning to the UK, Tommy faced repeated setbacks due to a hearing impairment. Determined to work, he turned to Futures for help. Through a tailored plan and a referral to StandGuide, Tommy explored new opportunities, completed trial shifts, and enrolled in HGV driver training. With ongoing support, he’s now on the road to long-term employment and renewed confidence.
Sumaia, referred by the Rosewood social prescriber team, faced language barriers and personal loss. With our support, she enrolled in an ESOL course at West Notts College, gaining confidence and new skills. We also discovered her talent for baking and are helping her explore turning her passion into a business, with links to Nottingham Trent University’s enterprise programme.
As a practitioner, it’s incredible to see the positive impact of Futures on the people we support. One individual came to us facing significant personal challenges and was not working. With support from the Futures team, they have built a new CV, applied for a part-time job, and regained confidence. They expressed heartfelt thanks for the team’s ongoing support, describing them as amazing and uplifting. This is exactly the kind of help that creates opportunities for people to lead better, more fulfilling lives.
The pilot’s success is measured not just in numbers, but in stories like these. By focusing on each person’s strengths and aspirations, and working in partnership across health and employment services, we’re helping people move closer to meaningful work and better health.
As one participant shared:
“Thank you so much for today and all the advice and help. Honestly, I feel so much better… knowing I’ve got help now with kind, genuine people.”
The Connect to Work Triage Pilot is more than a short-term project, it’s a blueprint for the future. As partnerships deepen and processes become more streamlined, we’re creating a model that can be scaled and sustained. Our next steps include expanding collaboration with new health partners, refining data collection to better understand community needs, and continuing to share best practice across the region.
Most importantly, we’ll keep doing what we do best: listening, supporting, and empowering individuals to take control of their futures. Because when health and employment support work hand in hand, the impact is life-changing, not just for individuals, but for families, communities, public services, and the local economy.
hello@futuresadvice.org
Futures
57 Maid Marian Way
Nottingham
NG1 6GE