After two impactful years, the Support to Succeed programme in Greater Manchester has now come to an end.
While this marks the close of an important chapter, it also provides an opportunity to reflect on the life-changing work that has taken place, and the people at the heart of it.
- 1,039 total participants
- 146 were supported into employment
- 162 received support with digital devices and training
From the outset, the programme was about much more than numbers. It was about people.
“Behind every number is a person, a story, and often a moment of crisis. Many individuals came to us at some of the most vulnerable and challenging times in their lives,” says Karen Mears, Team Leader in Wigan.
“Being able to stand alongside them, offering not just practical support but compassion, understanding, and hope, has been at the very heart of everything we do.”
A holistic approach to support
Over the course of the programme, over 1,000 participants were supported, each with their own unique challenges and aspirations.
The approach taken was never one-dimensional. Instead, it focused on the whole person: their wellbeing, their confidence, and their future.
Support ranged from improving health and wellbeing, to helping individuals navigate financial hardship, and opening doors to training and volunteering opportunities. Although the contract was not specifically designed to focus on employment, the outcomes speak volumes.
“For many of our participants, returning to work wasn’t just about employment, it was about rediscovering their self-belief, independence, and a sense of direction,” Karen explains.
In total, over 140 individuals were supported into employment, an achievement that reflects both the resilience of the participants of the programme and the dedication of the team in Greater Manchester.
Bridging the digital divide
In an increasingly digital world, access to technology and the skills to use it are essential. Recognising this, the programme placed a strong emphasis on digital inclusion.
A total of 162 participants received support with digital devices and training, helping them reconnect with services, opportunities, and their communities.
“Watching individuals go from uncertainty to confidence in using technology has been one of the many quiet but powerful successes of this programme,” says Karen.
Supporting those most in need
Some of the most powerful moments came from supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Through practical help and human connection, the team worked to ensure that no one felt forgotten.
From organising and serving Christmas lunches, to providing essential items like sleeping bags, socks, boots, and flasks, these acts of care made a real difference.
“These weren’t just items, they were lifelines," Karen reflects.
"Small but meaningful gestures to show people that they are seen, valued, and not forgotten."
The programme also worked closely with drug and alcohol services, supporting individuals navigating complex personal challenges. These partnerships enabled a more holistic, compassionate approach to care.
Building connections in the community
At its core, Support to Succeed was about bringing people together.
Through regular coffee mornings and events, such as our Macmillan fundraisers, safe and welcoming spaces were created where individuals could connect, share experiences, and support one another.
“These moments of togetherness helped reduce isolation and reminded us all of the strength that lies within community,” Karen says.
A chapter ends, but the impact remains
As the programme comes to a close, Karen reveals the enormous sense of pride in the support provided for so many by her team.
“This programme has been more than just a service; it has been a lifeline, a support network, and, for many, a turning point,” Karen reflects.
“We have seen resilience grow where there was once uncertainty, and hope return where it had been lost.”
While Support to Succeed may be ending, its impact will continue to be felt in the lives of the people it supported. The confidence built, the relationships formed, and the progress made will not be lost.
“It has truly been a privilege to be part of so many journeys, and we will carry those experiences with us into whatever comes next,” Karen concludes.
Support to Succeed - Highlights
