New NHS scheme to help people stay in work

A new programme is being launched in Sussex to support people whose health is affecting their ability to work.

The initiative, called WorkWell, will focus on mental health and musculoskeletal conditions – two of the leading causes of long-term sickness and unemployment.

It aims to offer earlier help and better coordination between health and employment services, especially in areas with higher levels of health-related joblessness.

Dr David Fox, clinical director at Hastings and St Leonards Primary Care Network, said GPs had a key role to play in supporting "more people to stay in work or get the care and support they need to get back to work".

The programme is part of wider government plans to improve public health and boost employment, and supports the NHS's long-term strategy to move care closer to communities.

WorkWell is being delivered by NHS Sussex in partnership with Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex.

Rebecca Sharp, associate director at Health Innovation KSS, said the organisation was looking forward to seeing the impact of the WorkWell initiative in East Brighton, Crawley, and Hastings.

Workwell forms part of the Government's Get Britain Working agenda and the NHS's 10-Year Health Plan, which prioritises prevention and community-based care.

'Sense of belonging'

To prepare for the rollout, a detailed review was carried out in Hastings, East Brighton and Crawley – areas identified as having greater need.

More than 80 interviews were conducted with local residents, health professionals, and employment support staff.

The review found several barriers to accessing support, including long waiting times, digital exclusion, unclear referral routes, and inconsistent help from employers.

It also highlighted a lack of awareness among GPs and primary care teams about local employment services.

Despite these challenges, the report identified strong local services that could be better connected.

It recommended more joined-up, person-centred care at neighbourhood level, and suggested integrating the fit note process into referral pathways to help people get support earlier.

Dr Vandana Verma, clinical director, Deans and Central Brighton PCN, said: "We know that being in good, meaningful work has benefits that go far beyond the economic.

"It supports mental and physical wellbeing, restores confidence, and fosters a sense of belonging.