The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a £240 million investment to help individuals with fluctuating health conditions and invisible disabilities enter or return to employment.
As reported by Daily Record, these initiatives are part of the government’s long-term ambition to achieve an 80% employment rate by reducing economic inactivity and supporting people with diverse health conditions in the workplace.
New Support for People With Fluctuating Health Conditions
The government is introducing targeted measures to assist individuals whose health conditions affect their ability to work consistently. These include flexible working arrangements, enhanced access to employment support services, and financial aid for those transitioning into work.
The “Get Britain Working” White Paper, launched on 26 November, includes provisions for the DWP to introduce specialist support programmes aimed at individuals with varying health conditions. These initiatives recognise that many people face periods of stability followed by health setbacks, which can make traditional employment structures difficult to sustain.
The new approach aims to provide more individualised support, ensuring that people who can and want to work receive the necessary resources to do so. This includes expanding existing employment support programmes and integrating health and social care services to create a more cohesive support network.
For individuals with conditions that worsen unpredictably, flexible job roles and part-time opportunities will be encouraged, helping them maintain a steady source of income while accommodating their health needs.
Addressing the Needs of Individuals With Invisible Disabilities
A related initiative focuses on people with invisible disabilities, such as fibromyalgia, ADHD, and neurodivergent conditions. Labour MP Mark Sewards recently questioned the DWP Minister, Alison McGovern, in the Commons about how the department plans to assist individuals with these conditions.
In response, McGovern confirmed that the government is expanding its approach to supporting neurodivergent individuals, building on the findings of the Buckland Review of Autism Employment.
She emphasised that appropriate work is beneficial for overall health and well-being, and the government aims to ensure tailored employment and health support is available at the right time and place.
Improving Workplace Accessibility
One of the key aspects of the government’s plan is the recognition of diverse workplace challenges faced by individuals with hidden disabilities. Many people with conditions such as chronic pain, mental health disorders, or neurological differences struggle with the traditional demands of a full-time job.
By expanding existing employment programmes and introducing new incentives for employers to create inclusive environments, the government hopes to make the workplace more accessible.
This includes promoting greater awareness among employers, encouraging reasonable adjustments, and providing funding for workplace modifications where necessary.
£240M Investment to Expand Employment Support and Workplace Inclusivity
The government’s strategy includes a £240 million investment to fund targeted employment initiatives, as well as enhanced workplace inclusivity efforts based on the findings of the Buckland Review of Autism Employment.
It also involves the expansion of specialist employment support programmes, including the deployment of Work Coaches and Disability Employment Advisers in Jobcentres, and the provision of Access to Work grants, which offer financial assistance to help individuals secure necessary workplace adjustments.
Additionally, the plan includes collaboration with Employment Advisors in NHS Talking Therapies, integrating health and job-seeking support, and the Individual Placement and Support in Primary Care programme, which combines medical care with employment assistance.
