The WorkWell pilots, launched by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC), announced on 7 May, will connect 59,000 people from October to local support services, including physiotherapy and counselling so they can get the tailored help they need to stay in or return to work.  

Health and social care secretary, Victoria Atkins, said: "Too often, people with disabilities or poor health fall out of work with no support.

"We have a plan to change that and improve lives so everyone has the opportunity to find fulfilling work. This service will help tens of thousands of people, who will receive joined-up work and health support, tailored to their individual needs.

"This service, alongside a faster, simpler and fairer health service, will build a healthier workforce, and a stronger economy."

WorkWell is for anyone with a health condition or disability, including mental health conditions, who wants to work. It is a voluntary service, so people will be able to self-refer, or may be referred to WorkWell through their GP, employer or the community sector.  

Participants will receive personalised support from a work and health coach to understand their current health and social barriers to work and draw up a plan to help them overcome them.

Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the NHS Confederation, said: "It is fantastic that 15 ICSs can now start to get their WorkWell plans off the ground to provide more intensive, early-intervention support to their populations.

"ICS leaders know that with the right support, people living with poor health and long-term conditions can find that good quality work helps prevent them from becoming more unwell. This helps people to live a fuller life, which in turn reduces pressure on health services."