A new, NHS-funded initiative, the Health and Growth Accelerator programme has launched across South Yorkshire to support people whose health challenges are affecting their ability to stay in, return to, or move into work, education, or training.
South Yorkshire is one of only three regions in England chosen to pilot this new approach which forms part of the Government’s ‘Pathways to Work’ initiative.
Bringing together the NHS, local authorities, education, employment, skills, and the voluntary sector, the initiative delivers personalised support to help people stay healthy, independent and connected to services and support that can benefit them.
Developed around the needs of local people, the Health and Growth Accelerator focuses on:
- adults (18-67) in work who have had recent history of absences from work due to mild to moderate mental health, mood disorders, musculoskeletal conditions, or chronic pain.
- young people aged 16 – 24 with low to moderate anxiety, depression, or neurodivergent conditions who are in education or work but struggling with attendance, or who are finding it difficult to gain employment due to their health needs.
Christine Joy, Chief People Officer, NHS South Yorkshire said: “The Health and Growth Accelerator is a fantastic opportunity to show how work and health are inextricably linked and that being able to work is acknowledged as a health outcome.
“By connecting people who are struggling to stay in work due to their health, to the right care, skills, and community support at the right time, we’re helping them build confidence and move forward in life.
“This is about empowering our communities across South Yorkshire to reach their full potential through health, work and education.”
People identified by participating GP practices will be invited to a Health and Growth Accelerator Navigation Hub where they can explore tailored support options with the Hub. This this may include free access to mental health and talking therapies, physiotherapy and pain management, voluntary and community support, digital health tools and apps, occupational health, and health coaching for wellbeing, confidence and work readiness.
Support is free, confidential, and voluntary. Employer involvement is optional and only takes place with a participant’s consent.
As part of the programme new community-based projects have been established offering local nature led and creative health support offers across South Yorkshire.
By bringing health, education and employment services together the Health and Growth Accelerator is helping more people to stay well, strengthening both lives and livelihoods across South Yorkshire.