The WorkWell service is designed to support a person with a disability or health condition who has been signed off work due to sickness (or is at risk of being signed off work). The service also supports participants who have become unemployed (within the last six months) as a result of a disability or health condition. 

The service provides personalised support by matching an individual with a Work and Health coach who will provide holistic, personalised support for the participant to create a thrive at work plan/or return to work plan.

This is a voluntary programme, and people can withdraw at any time. The maximum support for a person at work is for eight weeks, and for a person who is seeking employment it is for a maximum of 16 weeks. 

GP Fit Note data confirms that one in five people who are signed off work with a Fit Note for more than four weeks do not return to work. The highest recorded reason for absence from work is mental health and musculoskeletal issues. 

In addition to being supported by a Work and Health coach, the WorkWell service hosts a multi-disciplinary team, which includes practitioners who specialise in mental Health, occupational and employment retention. 

WorkWell is part of a national pilot scheme. It is a partnership between NCL ICB local authorities, intermediaries and voluntary sector organisations across Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington, and is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions. 

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusions

NCL resident with a health condition or disability who want to improve their work situation. Participation is on individual terms, regardless of benefit status.

For example:

• people with long-term health conditions, mental health or MSK issues or disabilities who express work-related concerns
• individuals on long-term sick leave who might benefit from a supported return to work
• people whose health might improve through appropriate, supported employment

Exclusions

• WorkWell is designed to offer light touch support. This means that people with intensive support needs will not be suitable for this service. However, the provider, Shaw Trust, has a 'No Wrong Door' approach so will signpost people who are not suitable for the WorkWell service to a more suitable employment support service. 

How to Refer

If your practice uses Accurx to text patients, see details of how to add text message templates in the resources section.