A groundbreaking partnership led by NHS Birmingham and Solihull supporting hundreds of people with long-term health condition and disabilities on their journey back into work has been praised.
Cllr Mariam Khan, Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, Mubasshir Ajaz, Head of Health and Communities at West Midlands Combined Authority and NHS Birmingham and Solihull’s Chair Professor Patrick Vernon OBE visited the Disability Resource Centre (DRC) in Kitts Green yesterday (10 September) to meet with the WorkWell team and hear first-hand about the transformative impact of the programme on local residents.
The visit highlighted the collaborative efforts of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, health and work coaches, and community partners who are helping people across East Birmingham and North Solihull overcome health-related barriers to employment. A branded bus from National Express West Midlands was also on site, showcasing their generous offer of four weeks’ free travel for WorkWell participants – and the latest campaign to encourage more people to reach out for support.
WorkWell is an early intervention work and health service designed to support individuals who are out of work due to ill health or disability, as well as those in work who are at risk of leaving due to health challenges. Birmingham and Solihull is one of 15 national vanguard areas selected for the £64 million, two-year Government pilot scheme, with £1.7 million allocated locally for an 18-month pilot.
To date, the programme has supported over 600 people to return to or remain in work, with 98% participant satisfaction. The service offers a holistic package of support, including physiotherapy, mental health talking therapies, Citizens Advice services, travel support from National Express, and access to the getUBetter self-management tool for musculoskeletal conditions.
The DRC, one of four delivery partners alongside Colebridge, BetterPathways, and Saheli, plays a vital role in providing health and work coaching tailored to the needs of disabled people and those with long-term health conditions.
Eligibility for the programme includes individuals aged 16+ who live or work in East Birmingham or North Solihull and are either out of work due to health or at risk of leaving work due to health. Referrals can be made via the WorkWell portal, GPs, employers, or community partners.
Speaking at the event, NHS Birmingham and Solihull’s Director of Transformation, Lindsay Carswell said: "WorkWell is a shining example of how integrated services can make a real difference in people’s lives. It’s inspiring to see the dedication of the teams involved and the tangible outcomes they’re achieving."
Professor Patrick Vernon OBE, Chair of NHS Birmingham and Solihull, added: "This programme is not just about employment — it’s about dignity, independence, and community. The success we’ve seen so far is a testament to the power of collaboration across health, employment, and community sectors."
For more information or to refer yourself or someone you know, visit our WorkWell page: WorkWell :: Birmingham and Solihull ICS