Almost 70,000 people with mental health issues were given
employment support last year as part of the NHS Talking Therapies
programme - up nearly two-thirds on the year before, latest NHS
figures show.
New data also shows almost 2 million referrals (1.8m) to Talking
Therapies were made last year, with more than 1.2m people
starting treatment.
NHS Talking Therapies help people who struggle with their mental
health, such as anxiety or depression, and as part of the
programme patients can be linked up with their own Employment
Advisor if finding and keeping work, is something they are keen
to explore or receive help with.
Once an individual is signed up to the service, they are linked
up with employment advisors who can help with a variety of
different tasks, from finding a new role to CV writing, prepping
for interviews, advising on reasonable adjustments in the
workplace and setting goals.
Employment and mental health are closely linked, and research
shows employment support from an advisor, alongside therapy, can
help improve symptoms of anxiety and depression.
67,794 people began receiving employment advice through the
programme last year, compared to 41,907 in the previous 12 months
– a rise of 62%.
Anyone can sign up to the NHS Talking Therapies Programme, either
online or by contacting their GP and NHS figures also show 9 in
10 were given mental health support within six weeks of referral
to the service.
This comes after a recruitment drive for an additional 700 NHS
Employment Advisors, with more set to be recruited in the coming
months.
NHS National Director for Mental Health, Claire Murdoch,
said: “The NHS has heard for many
years from patients struggling with their mental health
that working and having a purpose can have a hugely positive
impact.
“This is why I'm thrilled that NHS staff have helped more than
67,000 mental health patients with employment advice, because for
many, having the right job and support is crucial in
their mental health journey.
“If you or someone you know is worried about their mental health,
please come forward, the NHS is here to help.”
Health and Social Care Secretary, said: “It is vital that patients can
get the support they need, to improve their mental health and
help them back to work.
“This government will transform mental health services,
recruiting more than 8,500 mental health professionals,
introducing mental health support in every school, and investing
in Talking Therapies for an extra 380,000 patients next
year.”
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, , said: “Good work is
good for people's health and wellbeing. Talking Therapies are
helping people get the mental health support and employment
advice they need to secure work and get on in life.
“With more people in well paid, secure work, we will boost living
standards and get the economy growing.”
Today's announcement comes after ONS analysis found that
NHS Talking Therapies can improve monthly pay prospects while
also boosting the chance of employment.
NHS Talking Therapies
programme is available to anyone who feels they need
support with things like feelings of depression, excessive worry,
social anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, please do come
forward for help. Ask your GP for a referral to NHS Talking
Therapies, or you can refer yourself via
nhs.uk/talk.
