Extending our Connect platform
26 Jan 2026
From Monday, 2 February, all People Services, Recruitment Services, Reward, Benefits and Pensions enquiries will be managed through the Connect platform.
On Monday, 2 February, we’re extending our Connect platform to include recruitment, reward, benefits and pensions.
You will be able to submit requests, track progress, receive updates and self-serve all in one place. This follows a successful pilot phase and replaces a number of shared email addresses.
One of the key action themes to emerge from our Your Voice Matters survey was Workload and Resources, with just 61% of colleagues reporting they have the information, equipment, technology, and support needed to do their job effectively.
This project is part of our ongoing commitment to Service Excellence and Continuous Improvement - streamlining key People services through the Connect platform to improve delivery and enhance the colleague experience.
Ele Morrissey, Executive Director of People said: “As we move into the next implementation phase you will be able to get support for various People queries through Connect. We’ve heard from colleagues across the organisation about the challenges with our current systems, and we’re acting on that feedback. Connect is one of the ways we’re simplifying processes, so everyone can focus on what matters most: delivering excellence together.
PJ Hemmaway, Chief Information Officer, said: “The rollout of Connect is a practical example of how we are putting our Delivery Handbook into action. By starting with a pilot, learning quickly, and iterating based on colleague feedback, we are building services that are genuinely user-centred and designed to work in practice. This approach directly supports our Manchester 2035 ambitions, improving service quality, accelerating response times, and creating more connected, efficient Professional Services that enable our colleagues to focus on what matters most.”
How to access Connect
- Visit Connect portal (from Monday, 2 February)
Training and Resources
- Visit our SharePoint hub to access training materials, FAQs, and step-by-step video guides available to all colleagues, making it easier to find the support you need.
Any questions?
- If you have any questions or feedback about the Connect launch, please visit our FAQs or share your comments using our feedback form.
