Funding boost and digital package of support enables Cornish People to ‘WorkWell’

Cornwall is one of 15 regions benefiting from Government ‘WorkWell’ funding to provide a package of support to help local people with health struggles to stay in, or return to, work.

An important step forward for the WorkWell programme has been taken with the launch of a range of digital support for those struggling to work because of their health.

A new WorkWell app providing mental healthcare at your fingertips, a film explaining the programme and series of social media videos that showcase how a team of dedicated WorkWell coaches are already supporting local people, are now available.

The app, developed by a team of experts in psychology, technology and consumer experience will offer local people access to 6 digital cognitive behaviour therapy sessions that will guide them through advice and tips on improving their mental health.  Users can track their progress, update how they’re feeling and see how far they have come.

They can also connect with a WorkWell coach at the touch of a button, who will offer personalised 1-2-1 support and advice on staying in or returning to work.

NHS Cornwall, which has commissioned the app, has also created a series of films, featuring local people who’ve used the WorkWell service with transformative benefits.

Daniel Stuart, a former farrier, was out of work after an accident. He’s accessed funding and training, as well as coaching to help his mental health, and has now launched his own jewellery and gift business thanks to new skills gained via the WorkWell programme.

Obadiah Light is also featured, talking positively about how the speed of support from WorkWell coaches is enabling to gain essential qualifications to the do the career he has always loved. He stopped working after a bereavement.

Both men are encouraging others in the films to seek the transformational support of WorkWell.

So far, more than 550 people struggling with their physical or mental health have received free, confidential coaching and support to stay in or return to work. The new digital tools aim to connect more people in Cornwall with WorkWell support.

NHS lead for WorkWell Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, Jessie Leigh, said: “We are proud to have helped more than 550 people so far, and it is wonderful they want to share their stories to encourage others to get help. 

“The WorkWell app has been designed to help with mental health, which is now the top health reason for people leaving the workforce due to ill health. The app offers support at the touch of a button, including digital cognitive behaviour therapy sessions, and the option to connect with a friendly WorkWell coach for personalised support.”

Founder of app developer Cerina, Prasannajeet Mane, said: “We are incredibly proud to partner with NHS Cornwall to launch this app and help people take small daily steps towards lasting positive change. Our goal is to empower people to manage day-to-day mental health challenges through evidence-based techniques, support that can be accessed anytime, anywhere, whenever they need it most.

“This work also represents a unique example of local Department of Work and Pensions and the Department of Health and Social Care collaboration to deliver on the government’s ‘Get Britain Working’ agenda.”

Jessie Leigh added: “WorkWell Cornwall’s mental health app is a clear example of empowering individuals to use digital tools to support their overall health and wellbeing. It’s great to see this type of innovation being rolled out across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, especially as it’s a great example of how we’re delivering the NHS 10-year plan shift to more digital access to mental health support.

“We know that people in work tend to be healthier and experience better overall health, and that being unable to work can be detrimental to health.”

Accessing the app is free for people aged over 16 in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly who have a health barrier to work. The WorkWell mental health support app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play

People can also connect with a friendly WorkWell coach through the Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum website: Welcome to WorkWell | Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum