Manchester's WorkWell initiative wins national ERSA Award for support

Residents managing long-term health conditions will benefit from expanded career help as the award-winning WorkWell employment support programme proves its success in Manchester.

Manchester City Council’s pioneering initiative, WorkWell, has received national acclaim at the Employment Related Services Association (ERSA) Awards. The programme won the "Health Solutions for Work" category for its success in empowering residents with mental and physical health conditions to navigate the job market.

Success of the WorkWell employment support programme

Launched in December 2024, the programme has already spearheaded the success of 1,457 people across the city. By operating directly within Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust hospitals, the service identifies patients who need help staying in their current roles or re-entering the workforce.

Currently, 381 individuals have been supported to stay in work while managing their conditions. A further 143 people have been helped into secure new employment. The service also provided 378 residents with longer-term employment pathways or essential health support.

Councillor Hacking, Executive Member for Work, Skills and Leisure, said: “We are delighted that the innovative WorkWell service was nationally recognised as best practice. Our partnership with Manchester Foundation Trust and the Growth Company has been a great success providing the first of its kind service in the UK and giving a blue print for how employment services can support people with health conditions to stay in work or find work in a compassionate and person centred way.”

Empowering diverse communities through WorkWell

A key focus of the initiative is providing tailored support for marginalised groups. Targeted assistance has helped many residents from ethnic minority backgrounds secure work and advance their careers. The programme is part of the wider Greater Manchester WorkWell Vanguard, a project worth up to £7 million aimed at assisting 8,000 people across the region.

Future growth of the WorkWell employment support programme

Following its award success, WorkWell has set ambitious targets for the future. The Council plans to support over 3,000 Manchester residents by 2029. Alex Howley, Operations Director at the Growth Company, noted: “WorkWell shows that health and employment outcomes are closely connected. The programme’s achievements in Manchester show how early intervention in healthcare settings, combined with personalised support, can play a crucial role.”

How to access support

The programme is scheduled to run until 31 March 2027. WorkWell is a voluntary service, and suitable participants are often identified by healthcare providers. However, residents who feel they could benefit from this health-focused employment support can find out more by contacting the council via email at work.skills.admin@manchester.gov.uk.

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