The ACES programme is a new employment programme offered by our Kingston service which offers free, personalised support to help individuals with a Mental Health Condition and/or Autism find paid employment.

Operating from Kingston Upon Thames the ACES programme is a faster more intensive form of employment support offering weekly sessions lasting up until March 2026.

What does ACES offer?

Connect to Work is a voluntary programme funded by the UK Government, designed to help people overcome barriers to employment. Whether you’re living with a disability, managing a health condition, or facing complex challenges, we’re here to support you into work – and help you stay there.
If you’re already employed but worried about losing your job, Connect to Work can provide tailored support to help you keep your role and progress in your career.

Our approach is based on the proven IPS (Individual Supported Employment) model: place, train and maintain. This means we work with you to:
Understand your skills and aspirations through vocational profiling.
Connect you with employers who value diversity and inclusion.
Provide personalised training and ongoing support once you start work. We also offer guidance for employers and self-employment options where appropriate.
You can find out more about what IPS here by clicking here

What does ACES offer?
Am I eligible for ACES?

Am I eligible for ACES?

To be eligible for this service you must:

*Not in paid employment
*Not been seeking employment in the past 4 weeks and/or you aren’t able to start work in the next 2 weeks
*Live within the Greater London Authority area
(including Kingston)
*Are aged 19 – 64 years old
*Don’t have regular appointments with a Jobcentre Work Coach
*Have a Mental health condition or Autism

How does someone apply to the ACES programme?

To apply they need to complete the ACES application form.

  • What is this form?
    The form contains questions which help to determine if someone is eligible.
  • What happens next?
    If they are eligible to join the programme, they will be contacted by an Employment support worker to arrange a meeting.
  • What is the initial meeting about?
    What work they would like
    What support they would like and how ACES can help them get a paid job
    Any questions they have about the ACES programme
  • Am I expected to bring anything to my first meeting?
    They need to take ID to the meeting and, if applicable, proof of their right to work in the UK.
ACES LeafletDownload