Upcoming Inclusive Employment Event for Employers

Coffee and Collaboration for Inclusive Employment – 24 February, Taunton

We are pleased to share details of an important upcoming event designed to support employers in building inclusive, confident, and diverse workplaces.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), in partnership with Somerset Council and North Somerset, are hosting Coffee and Collaboration for Inclusive Employment—a dedicated employer event taking place on 24 February at Taunton Rugby Club.

This session will focus on inclusive employment, offering practical insights and opportunities for employers committed to supporting disabled people and those with long‑term health conditions into sustainable work.

🌱 What to Expect

At this event, employers will receive a full briefing on Connect to Work—the first programme under the Government’s new Get Britain Working strategy. Delivered locally by councils, this programme supports disabled people, individuals with long-term health conditions, and those facing complex barriers to find meaningful and lasting employment.

Speakers Hattie Winter and Colleen Blake from Somerset Council will provide:

• An overview of how Connect to Work will operate in Somerset
• Information on how employers can get involved
• Insights into how the Disability Confident scheme aligns with and strengthens the programme

🤝 Why Attend?

Instead of holding a separate February meeting for the Disability Confident Employer Network, DWP is encouraging all network members—and any employers interested in inclusive employment—to attend this event.

By joining, employers will:

• Access all the information originally planned for the February network meeting
• Network with others committed to inclusive practices
• Promote and build on their Disability Confident pledges
• Share good practice and learn from peers
• Help strengthen the local employer network

This event provides a valuable platform to champion Disability Confident principles and support others starting or progressing through the scheme.

📅 Event Details

Coffee and Collaboration for Inclusive Employment
📍 Taunton Rugby Club
📅 24 February
📝 Booking: Please use the Eventbrite link Coffee and Collaboration for Inclusive Employment to book your place

We look forward to seeing many local employers there and continuing to build a strong, inclusive employment community across North Somerset.