What is the Health and Growth Accelerator?
The Health and Growth Accelerator is a new, NHS funded programme that aims to support people in South Yorkshire who are experiencing health challenges to remain or return to work or education.
The programme brings together a wide range of services that support physical and mental health, boost confidence, and help people in staying connected to work or education.
You would receive an invite because:
•You may have had period of absence from work or education due to a health condition.
•You may work for a small or medium-sized business (i.e less than 250 employees) in Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham or Sheffield and would like some support with your health needs to remain in work.
•You could benefit from early support to stay healthy and in work.
How do I use the Health and Growth Accelerator?
There is no way to self-refer to be part of the programme.
We are working with GP practices across South Yorkshire where there is the highest levels of deprivation spread. If your GP thinks the Health and Growth Accelerator would help your case they might refer you to the programme.
What support is on offer?
Support in the community - Free one-to-one and group-based support to improve your wellbeing.
Physiotherapy and pain management - Get help to move better and reduce or manage pain so you can return to everyday activities or work.
Functional fitness - Build your strength and fitness with expert guidance.
Occupational Health - Core services to keep you safe and supported in the workplace.
Group sessions - Join others in a supportive environment to manage your condition.
Talking Therapies - Access evidence-based support for low levels of anxiety or depression or to support you with managing long-term conditions or pain.
Digital support tools - Chat with trained practitioners online, privately and securely.
Vocational rehabilitation - Tailored advice to help you stay in work, manage your condition, or adapt your workplace.
Confidential advice - Get practical help for social, housing, or financial issues that are affecting your wellbeing.
Green Social Prescribing - Outdoor activities that support mental and physical health.
Weight Management and Diabetes Prevention - Support to stay healthy and active.
How does it work?
Your GP has referred you to the Health and Growth Accelerator Hub and are invited to access your secure online portal. Here, you will complete a short confidential questionnaire about your health, situation, and contact preferences, so we can match you with the right support. You can also tell us about any accessibility or communication needs. If you are unable to use the website, the Hub team will contact you by phone.
The Hub team will have an initial conversation with you to understand your situation, health needs, and work or education goals.
Based on the conversation with the hub, you will be referred to one or more services that best meet your needs.
The Hub team will check in with you to see how things are going, whether support has been helpful, and if you could benefit from any further support.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. All your personal and health information is kept confidential and stored securely. We only share information with your consent or where it is necessary to help provide you with support.
We will only contact your employer with your explicit permission. For example, if you would like support with workplace adjustments or return-to-work plans. You can still access the majority of support services without employer involvement.
Once you’ve completed the online form, someone from the Health and Growth Accelerator team will contact you to discuss next steps.
No, this programme is fully funded and free to access.
Yes. The programme is designed to support people who are currently in work or returning after a period of sickness. We can help you with a return-to-work plan and offer advice on adjustments to support your health.
Yes. After your initial conversation, we will recommend services based on what is likely to help, but the decision is always yours. You can say yes or no to any part of the offer, and we will work with you to build a plan that feels right.
If you are not comfortable using the online portal, we can contact you by telephone. Many of the services offered are delivered face-to-face in your local area.
