Extra help to stay in work
The Government has announced plans to extend services to help people with mental health problems manage their condition and stay in their jobs.
Following the success of a series of pilot schemes, the Government intends to double the Access to Work fund from £69 million to £138 million over the next five years.
The welfare minister, Jim Knight, said: "I know disabled people dearly want to stay in work and their employers want to do everything they can to keep good staff. Our plans to offer the right help early on can end the downward spiral of people falling out of work into sick leave, and onto benefits. We are all agreed that helping people stay in work is good news for them, their bosses and for the taxpayer."
There will also be a national strategy for Mental Health and Employment, which will detail expectations for employers, health care professionals, organisations and individuals where it comes to improving mental well-being in the workplace.
Dr Rachel Perkins, a mental health expert, and Paul Farmer, the Chief Executive of Mind, have also been asked to provide ideas on how to help people with mental health problems get back to work.
One proposal is for a network of mental health experts attached to Jobcentre Plus, who will work with colleagues in the health system to co-ordinate support for people with mental health conditions.
Mind's director of external relations, Sophie Corlett, said: "If employers put their mind to it and provide the right support they can keep their staff mentally well and fit for the workplace.
"People with mental health problems want to work but are often failed by employers who lack the understanding or the skills to provide the necessary support.
"We welcome the Government's increased investment in mental health, particularly during these difficult economic times, when now more than ever people need the support and understanding of their employers."
Source: Mental Health Foundation