Funding launched for disabled individuals to find work worth £58 million

A fresh £58 million in government funding for disabled individuals to find work, worth £58 million, has been launched

Support will be provided to up to 25,000 individuals with health conditions to help them sustain employment.

This additional employment support will reach 12 areas spread across 41 local authorities in England. This funding signifies the initial phase of implementing Universal Support, which plays a crucial role in reducing economic inactivity and fostering economic growth.

Mel Stride MP, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, has announced (11th June 2023) the expansion of a program that offers employment assistance to individuals with mild to moderate mental or physical health conditions who are unemployed or require support to remain employed.

Acknowledging the significant impact of employment on overall health and well-being, the program ensures participants are referred by healthcare professionals, including GPs and practice nurses, integrating employment support and guidance with their regular health treatment.

Funding for disabled individuals to thrive in employment

Mel Stride MP, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, expressed that they recognise the favorable influence of work on individuals’ health and well-being.

With this groundbreaking program for people with disabilities, thousands more people will have the opportunity to experience the advantages of meaningful employment, supported by the appropriate assistance.

The initial phase of the IPSPC program, launched in April 2023, provided employment support to 12,700 individuals in South Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, West London, Norfolk, Cheshire West and Chester, and West Midlands.

This cost around £27.9 million, and now, with an additional £31 million investment from the DWP and DHSC, the program is expanding to assist an additional 12,900 people in Enfield, Essex, Newham, Nottingham, Slough, and Surrey.

The importance of employment support for disabled people and people with health conditions

Tom Pursglove MP, the Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, expressed:

“In our Health and Disability White Paper, we highlighted the importance of employment support for disabled people and people with health conditions, so it is absolutely right to expand the proven successful model of supported employment further.”

Health Minister, Maria Caulfield, also commented on the news:

“This expanded funding is a vital part of our drive to support disabled people and those with health conditions who deserve to live independently. This also includes our £573 million annual Disabled Facilities Grant, which funds housing modifications such as grab rails and ramps to improve independent living at home.