Bicester resident becomes first success story of Oxfordshire’s new Connect to Work programme
Bicester resident Tom Bucknell has become the first person in Oxfordshire to secure a job through the county’s new Connect to Work programme.
Tom has just begun his role as a Customer Services Officer at Oxfordshire County Council, following tailored one‑to‑one support to help him back into employment.
When Tom’s contract with an NHS Foundation Trust ended, he suddenly found himself back in the job market, a process that brought added anxiety as a wheelchair user concerned about accessibility and flexible working options.
Connect to Work is a free, voluntary programme offering personalised employment support to residents with disabilities, health conditions or other barriers to work. Oxfordshire is among the first areas in England and Wales to launch it, with hundreds of residents expected to benefit over the coming years.
Tom said: “I always have to think twice about things others don’t even notice. That brings internal, mental health barriers as well as physical ones.”
Referred by the Jobcentre in Banbury, Tom joined the Connect to Work programme and was paired with Oxfordshire County Council Employment Advisor Courtney Bateman. Courtney helped him understand his strengths, explore suitable roles, tailor his applications and even accompanied him to job interviews.
Tom said: “Having someone in my corner made such a difference. When I was offered the job, I felt genuinely proud, like someone finally saw my skills.”
His first full day in the role left a lasting impact. Tom said: “I just felt amazing. I’d done it. I worked a full day, and that was really empowering,” he said.
Three weeks in, Tom is already confidently handling customer emails and supporting congestion charge permit approvals. Courtney continues to support him as he settles, describing him as consistent, resilient and highly motivated individual.
Rho Marinari, Tom’s manager at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Working with Tom and the Connect to Work team has been a really positive experience.
“The support they provided ensured Tom could step into the role with confidence, and we’ve been glad to play our part in helping him settle in.
“Having an accessible and welcoming workplace is essential for everyone, and we’re committed to doing what we can to help colleagues thrive.”
Tom added: “I can’t thank Courtney enough for everything she’s done, and I also want to thank my manager Rho and Richard Merritt for being so supportive. It’s made such a difference as I start this new chapter.”
Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Tom’s achievement is something we’re incredibly proud of.
“To see the very first person supported through Connect to Work already thriving in his new role is both inspiring and encouraging.
“This is exactly what the programme is here to do: help people facing real barriers realise their strengths and move into meaningful work. Tom’s story shows just how powerful that support can be.”
The Connect to Work initiative represents a significant investment in Oxfordshire’s communities, with over £8.3 million allocated to support delivery over the next five years.
The programme is delivered in partnership with Oxfordshire Employment, Enterprise Oxfordshire and other local organisations, forming part of the council’s wider commitment to increasing independence for residents as part of The Oxfordshire Way.
Residents can self‑refer or be referred by an organisation they already work with.
For more information or to register interest, visit the Connect to Work pages on the Oxfordshire County Council website or email connecttowork@oxfordshire.gov.uk.
ENDS
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