Work and Health

Good work is more than a source of income, it can have a positive impact on both physical and mental wellbeing. Supportive managers, safe workplaces, social connection, financial security and a sense of purpose all contribute to better health outcomes.

Conversely, unemployment, insecure work or poor working conditions can negatively affect health and wellbeing. Across the UK, millions of people are currently out of work due to long-term illness, often experiencing multiple overlapping health and social challenges.

Anyone who has contact with the public can play an important role in supporting people to consider how work, health and wellbeing are connected. This includes people working across:

  • health and care services
  • local authorities
  • housing
  • community and voluntary organisations
  • education and skills services
  • employment support services
  • customer-facing public services

Simple supportive conversations can help people feel listened to, identify barriers, build confidence and connect with appropriate support.

Support needs will vary depending on:

  • whether a person is currently employed, seeking work, or not seeking work at this time
  • the impact of ill health, disability, caring responsibilities or mental wellbeing on daily life and employment
  • whether support is needed short term, intermittently, or as part of longer-term ongoing support

A person-centred approach is essential. For some individuals, the priority may be sustaining current employment, while for others it may be building confidence, managing health, volunteering, developing skills or considering future work options.

Very Brief Intervention

Ask

Start with the understanding that being in "good work" is defined as having a safe, secure job with supportive management and fair conditions.  'Good work' acts as a primary determinant of health that directly improves overall physical and mental wellbeing. Source Health matters: health and work - GOV.UK

Conversations about work and health should always be supportive, person-centred and voluntary. The aim is not simply employment, but helping people improve wellbeing, build confidence, maintain independence and access opportunities that are right for them at that point in their lives.

Ask simple, open questions to understand the person’s current circumstances, strengths and goals.

Understanding current situation

What is your current situation regarding work or employment?

Are you currently working, looking for work, or focusing on your health and wellbeing at the moment?

What does a typical week look like for you?

Exploring health and work

How would you describe your health at the moment and does this affect your day-to-day activities or work?

Are there aspects of work or daily life you are finding difficult at the moment?

What support, if any, have you already received?

Understanding goals and readiness

Is work something you would like to explore now or in the future?

What would good work or meaningful activity look like for you?

What strengths, interests or skills would you like to build on?

These conversations can help identify:

  • health-related barriers to employment
  • workplace adjustment needs
  • confidence, motivation and readiness for change
  • caring responsibilities or social challenges
  • opportunities for early intervention or longer-term support

Key Insight

Many people who are out of work because of ill health still want to work at some stage, but may feel excluded, lack confidence, or worry that their condition will prevent them from succeeding. Others may not currently feel ready for employment and instead benefit from support focused on wellbeing, stability and recovery.

Assist

Tailor the assist conversation according to the person’s current circumstances, level of need and personal goals.

The aim of this is to:

  • listen 
  • encourage
  • build confidence 
  • provide relevant information
  • introduce appropriate support options where helpful

For people currently in work

Did you know that there are lot of services now available available which can:

  • help you remain in work while managing a health condition for example a GP 'Fit Note' can be used as a tool to advise employers on what they can do, rather than just what they can’t.
  • advise on workplace adjustments 
  • provide practical support such as specialist equipment or travel assistance 
  • support conversations with an employer

Would you like some further information about services that can support you to stay in work while managing your health?

Key Insight

Sadly not all employers provide good work, for those in low pay or insecure work you may need to have a conversation about what might be helpful to move on or progress to something than can lead to better long term health and financial security.

For people seeking work

Support conversations around:

  • confidence and aspirations
  • transferable skills and strengths
  • training or volunteering opportunities
  • realistic next steps
  • balancing health needs with employment goals

Did you know that there are a range of support services are available which can:

  • help you build confidence and prepare for work
  • offer careers advice and skills support
  • provide specialist employment support for people with disabilities or long-term health conditions
  • support you to find and sustain suitable employment

Would you like some further information about the support available for finding work, training or building confidence?

Act

Where appropriate, signpost individuals to local, regional or national support services based on their needs, readiness and circumstances.

Recommended Local support services

Please click on the Local Authority links below to find information on the services available in your area. A range of support is available for both adults and young people (aged 16–25) to help them either enter or stay in employment. Many of these services operate a 'no wrong door' approach, meaning they will always help signpost people to the right support.

Other national support available for people current in work

Access to Work

Access to Work: A DWP grant scheme that funds practical support beyond reasonable adjustments including specialist equipment, support workers, travel costs, and mental health support for people whose health or disability affects how they do their job.

Web: https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work

Health Adjustment Passport

Health Adjustment Passport: A free tool created by the DWP that helps disabled people and those with long-term health conditions have informed conversations with employers about the workplace adjustments they need.

Web: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-adjustment-passport

Other national support available for people looking for work

New Jobs and Careers Service

New Jobs and Careers Service: A universal service (integrating the former Jobcentre Plus and National Careers Service in England) that provides personalised coaching, careers advice and skills training for everyone, regardless of whether they claim benefits.

Web: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/

Local Support and Contact Details