Published: Monday, 23rd March 2026
Cannock Chase Council is celebrating the success of the Cannock Chase Discovery Programme, delivered by AKG and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
The programme has focused on supporting residents who are unemployed or in low paid work, particularly those facing additional barriers such as poor health, low confidence, limited qualifications, or digital exclusion. Through personalised employment, skills, and wellbeing support, the programme has helped people of all ages build confidence, gain new skills, and move closer to sustainable work.
AKG has delivered a wide range of tailored activities across areas such as life skills, accredited training, health and wellbeing, job search support, and in work coaching.
Extended in July 2025 and running until March 2026, the programme has engaged with 235 residents. With the highest levels of participation coming from Bridgtown, Rugeley and Hednesford.
Thanks to UKSPF funding, the Discovery Programme has achieved strong results. Since the extension, residents have completed 124 basic skills courses, with 44 gaining a qualification or completing further training. A total of 86 residents were supported to gain employment, and 78 improved their digital skills—helping them access new opportunities and boost their confidence online.
A recent social prescribing referral led to encouraging progress for an individual facing financial pressures, anxiety and employment uncertainty.
When they were first engaged in February 2026, they were struggling with day to day pressures, awaiting the outcome of a benefit claim and experiencing limited access to food and essentials. Collaborative intervention helped stabilise their situation: they were enrolled onto the Discovery Programme, connected with support services, and provided with a Household Support Fund grant and foodbank voucher.
Recognising the importance of wellbeing, the individual was encouraged to attend the local men’s peer support group “Stand By Me.” Initially hesitant, they soon began attending regularly and reported feeling uplifted and supported.
Their progress has since been remarkable. They have secured employment starting this month and are preparing for a gym assessment as part of their routine, and report significantly improved mood, confidence and wellbeing.
This story highlights the impact of coordinated person centred support—showing how practical help, emotional encouragement and community connection can take someone from crisis to renewed stability.
The programme has also had a positive impact across the wider community, supporting local events, creating volunteering opportunities, and delivering dedicated training sessions.
Councillor Garry Samuels, Portfolio Leader for Regeneration and High Streets, said: “These results show the real difference UKSPF funding is making to people across Cannock Chase. AKG’s programme is supporting residents who need it most—helping them build confidence, develop new skills, and take positive steps towards a brighter future. We are incredibly proud of the progress made and the positive impact this work is having in our communities.”
The Cannock Chase Discovery Programme has made a lasting difference across the district, helping residents overcome personal, health, and financial barriers while supporting them to develop long term skills for employment and education. The strong outcomes demonstrate the value of community focused investment and the strength of partnership working in Cannock Chase.