Overview
- The expansion follows a 15-area pilot that supported more than 25,000 people, with 48% citing mental illness as their main barrier and 59% out of work at first appointment.
- WorkWell will be delivered locally through NHS Integrated Care Boards working with local authorities, Jobcentre Plus and community organisations.
- People can access support without claiming benefits via employer or GP referrals, Jobcentre Plus, local services or self-referral, with tailored plans from a Work and Health Coach.
- Funding of up to £259 million covers the next three years for services such as physiotherapy, counselling, workplace adjustments and return-to-work planning.
- The government links the rollout to reducing the 2.8 million people out of work due to long-term sickness and to cutting demand from over 11 million fit notes issued annually, while full pilot outcome data has not yet been published.