AKG has begun delivering a new phase of the Cannock Chase Discovery Programme, continuing vital work to support residents into learning, employment and better health outcomes across the district.
The programme, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and commissioned by Cannock Chase District Council, began its new phase on Monday 14 July 2025 and will run until March 2026. It builds on a successful year of delivery, which saw over 180 residents referred into support, strong cross-sector collaboration and excellent performance across skills, wellbeing and employability.
Now being delivered under the AKG brand, the service brings together expertise from across AKG’s employment, learning and health business.
Delivering for local people
The programme is designed to help residents develop the skills, confidence and resilience needed to succeed in life and work. It focuses on those who are unemployed or in low-paid work, and who may also be living with poor health, low qualifications, digital exclusion or other barriers to progress.
AKG will deliver a wide range of tailored support across areas including life skills, accredited training, health and wellbeing, job searching and in-work support. This builds on innovative pilots from the previous contract such as the clinician-led ‘Wellbeing in Work’ courses delivered by AKG Health, and practical skills sessions developed in collaboration with Barclays Bank and local community partners.
Samantha Saunders, Head of Operations at AKG Employment, said:
“We’re proud to continue supporting the people of Cannock Chase through this extended contract. The Discovery programme works because it’s rooted in partnership, with the Council, with local organisations, and most importantly with residents themselves.
“This next phase will help even more people build confidence, access training and gain good, sustainable work, and we’re excited to be delivering this as AKG, bringing together our full strength across employment, health and learning.”
Measured by outcomes, driven by impact
The programme will be measured against a set of agreed outputs and outcomes across areas such as employment, education, digital inclusion, health support and in-work progression.
Additional focus will be placed on improving access for underrepresented groups, particularly women and older adults, and ensuring local reach across all Cannock Chase wards.
Maureen Freeman, Portfolio Leader for Regeneration and High Streets said:
“The Discovery programme is a key part of our work to support residents into better opportunities and build a stronger local economy. We’re delighted to see AKG continuing to lead this important work and delivering innovative, locally rooted support across the district.”
The Discovery programme will be delivered through AKG’s local hub in Cannock and several accessible community locations. For more information or to register visit: https://akguk.co.uk/discoverycannock/.
