New plans to help disabled people find work announced

The government has announced new measures intended to help disabled people improve their health and find gainful employment.

Joint plans developed by the Department for Work and Pensions and the Department of Health has called for a wide-ranging public debate to be opened up to improve recognition of the value of work as a health outcome.

Going hand-in-hand with this will be a review of statutory sick pay and GP fit notes to help workers return to work faster and remain there for the long-term, while Jobcentre Plus work coaches will be encouraged to signpost claimants to therapy services.

Meanwhile, a consultation will be launched on potential reforms of work capability assessments, with employers to be urged to work with employees affected by long-term health conditions to ensure they are not forced to quit.

Health secretary Jeremy Hunt said: "With all the evidence showing that work is a major driver of health, this is a big opportunity to make sure that people get the support they need, improve their health and benefit the NHS all at the same time."

Currently, the gap between employment rates among disabled people and non-disabled people is estimated at 32 percentage points, with 4.6 million disabled people and those with long-term health conditions out of work.

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