People with mental health problems will receive extra support to
manage their conditions to help them stay in the workplace, the
Government announced today.
A series of pilot schemes have proved to be successful in helping
people with fluctuating mental health conditions retain their jobs.
Following these trials the Government will extend the support on offer, welfare minister Jim Knight said.
Measures introduced by the Government, including a national strategy
for Mental Health and Employment, will detail expectations of
employers, healthcare professionals, organisations and individuals in
improving well-being in the workplace.
Ministers have also asked mental health expert Dr Rachel Perkins and
Paul Farmer Chief Executive of Mind to provide fresh ideas on how to
help people with mental health problems get back into work.
Other proposals include a new network of mental health experts
across Jobcentre Plus who will work with colleagues in the health
system to co-ordinate support for people who have mental health
conditions.
A consultation on Right to Control, which will give disabled people,
including those with mental health problems, greater choice and control
over how public money is spent to meet their needs.
The Access to Work fund will be doubled from £69m to £138m over the next five years.
Sophie Corlett, Mind's director of external relations, said: "If
employers put their mind to it and provide the right support they can
keep their staff mentally well and fit for the workplace.
"People with mental health problems want to work but are often
failed by employers who lack the understanding or the skills to provide
the necessary support.
"We welcome the Government's increased investment in mental health,
particularly during these difficult economic times, when now more than
ever people need the support and understanding of their employers."
Mr Knight said: "I know disabled people dearly want to stay in work
and their employers want to do everything they can to keep good staff.
"Our plans to offer the right help early on can end the downward
spiral of people falling out of work into sick leave, and onto benefits.
"We are all agreed that helping people stay in work is good news for them, their bosses and for the taxpayer."
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