Individuals who have faced challenges in securing employment due to mental health issues will soon receive valuable support aimed at facilitating their return to work. Workbridge, an initiative under the mental health charity St Andrew's Healthcare, has been granted £60,000 by West Northamptonshire Council, which is controlled by the Conservative party. This funding comes from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is part of a broader initiative designed to enhance local skills in Northampton.
The programme will focus on providing wellbeing support alongside essential skills training. Dr Inga Stewart, a consultant psychologist at St Andrew's, emphasised the collective responsibility to create supportive work environments that safeguard mental health. Statistics from Mental Health UK indicate that over 20% of employees took leave last year due to stress, highlighting the urgent need for effective workplace mental health strategies.
The five-week programme will empower participants to develop new skills, cultivate resilience, and boost their confidence, ultimately aiding their journey towards employment. Jenny Lane, Workbridge's education manager, expressed pride in assisting individuals living with mental illness, autism, learning disabilities, or brain injuries in acquiring vital vocational and life skills.
Referrals to the Workbridge vocational programme will be facilitated through the Department for Work and Pensions and Northampton's Wellbeing Launchpad, although self-referrals will also be accepted for those who meet the necessary criteria. This initiative represents a significant step forward in supporting mental health recovery and enhancing employability within the community.
