A support service designed to help disabled people and people with health conditions to start, stay or succeed in work has been rolled out across the Lancaster district.
WorkWell is a new programme aimed at helping people with some physical and mental health conditions by providing support to return or stay in work.
Created as part of the Government’s plan to help people with health conditions back to work, the service provides tailored help and assessment for people aged 18 and above at risk of falling out of work or for those who have had to stop working because of a health condition.
As part of the offer, individuals will have access to a work and health coach, who will offer individualised support for up to 12 weeks and help create some clear objectives that address individuals’ physical, psychological and social needs.
Councillor Nick Wilkinson, Lancaster City Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for regeneration and local economy, said: “We want everyone who is eligible to take advantage of this big opportunity and benefit from the package of support that’s on offer.
“We are also working with local employers to address some of the barriers people face in work or returning to work when they have a physical or mental condition, and I believe the service will have a positive impact for local people and employers in our district."
Lancashire and South Cumbria was chosen last year as one of 15 regions in England to pilot the WorkWell service, and it now operates in Barrow-in-Furness, Blackburn, Blackpool, Burnley, Lancaster, Preston and West Lancashire - although anyone who lives in Lancashire and South Cumbria can access it.
Lancaster City Council is delivering the project in its district in partnership with Lancaster District Community and Voluntary Solutions (LDCVS).
To be eligible you will be either out-of-work for less than six months and need health-related support to return to work, or employed and absent through sickness or struggling in the workplace due to a health condition. However, the service isn’t designed for individuals with complex health needs and conditions, or those who are long-term unemployed.
To access WorkWell or find out more, visit Lancaster.gov.uk/workwell or email workwell@lancaster.gov.uk.
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