Minister says the Work and Health Support Scheme will Break the Cycle of Illness
The most recent government statistics reveal that in the UK, there are approximately 2.8 million people classified as ‘economically inactive’ due to long-term illness, reaching a nearly record high.
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions has initiated a test program that merges workplace guidance with health assistance to aid individuals with persistent conditions in remaining employed, aiming to break the cycle of sickness.
Recently, Mel Stride MP introduced the WorkWell initiative, a collaboration between the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Department for Health and Social Care to provide tailored support to around 59,000 individuals at risk of exiting the workforce.
Commencing in October, the £64 million scheme will focus on 15 regions nationwide, including areas with a high number of individuals on sick leave, such as Greater Manchester and the Black Country, where over a million Fit Notes were issued last year.
In a statement, Mr. Stride expressed concern that too many people are being forced out of work due to a spiral of sickness that negatively impacts their finances, prospects, and overall health. He highlighted the importance of implementing the WorkWell service to integrate health and work advice at the local level to reduce economic inactivity, foster economic growth, and enhance lives.
Work ‘Improves Wellbeing’
The trial will be conducted nationwide, including in Birmingham, the Black Country, Bristol, Cornwall, Greater Manchester, parts of London, and South Yorkshire.
“The WorkWell service offers a unified assessment and gateway to both employment support and health services locally to aid individuals in managing their conditions and identifying workplace adjustments or support to help them retain or return to work,” stated the DWP.
