Employment

Being in good work can have a positive impact on a person’s health by providing routine, a sense of purpose, social contact, and financial security—all of which support better mental and physical well-being. However, some individuals may face barriers to employment, such as disabilities, long-term health conditions or caring responsibilities. Supporting people to start or return to work can help improve their confidence, independence, and overall health and wellbeing, while also benefiting the wider economy. A range of employment support services are available to help, including employment support services for people with disabilities, employment advice linked to mental health and musculoskeletal health services, and access to reasonable adjustments tailored to individual needs.

Very Brief Intervention

Ask

How are you finding your current employment?

  • Understand current employment status to tailor support
  • Emphasise that being in good work can have a positive impact on health and wellbeing

What does good employment look like?

  • Asking what good employment looks like can support an individual to develop visualisation and motivation

Are there any specific skills or qualifications you feel you need in order to improve your job prospects?

  • Determine if there are gaps in an skills or qualifications and understand the support needed to be accessed through training or education

What would help you to stay well and thrive at work? 

  • Understanding what supports staying well and thriving at work can help identify an employer with similar values

Assist

It sounds like your finding your job challenging, what kind of support do you think you need?

Would you like help finding employment support services?

  • Help them explore local employment support services available in the area

Would you like help finding resources or activities to support you develop your training or qualifications?

  • Encourage support with qualifications and training to be able to access employment

Act

What steps do you think you can take next to move closer to your employment goals?

How do you feel about the information and support discussed today?

Provide signposting to local resources and employment support services

Government Support - UK

Employment Support Allowance (ESA) 

ESA provides financial support if you’re unable to work and personalised help to get back into work if you’re able to. You can apply whether you’re employed, self-employed, or unemployed. 

Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): Overview - GOV.UK

New Style Employment and Support Allowance

This allowance is available if you have an illness, health condition, or disability that affects your ability to work. It provides financial support and helps you get back into work. 

New Style Employment and Support Allowance - GOV.UK

Local Support and Contact Details