WorkWell Pilots Set the Stage for a National Programme

On 20 January, the Department for Work and Pensions announced that WorkWell – a proven health‑and‑employment support service – will be expanded across England, offering help to up to 250,000 more people with health conditions to stay in or return to work. In this article, Michelle Leeson, the Growth Company’s Director of Employment, Justice and Health, reflects on the success of the pilot scheme and the difference it has already made to Greater Manchester residents.

Over the past 12 months or so, the Growth Company has delivered WorkWell alongside the University of Manchester NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) in Manchester and Trafford, and in partnership with councils in Wigan and Bury.

During this period, I’ve seen first-hand how the right kind of support can help disabled people and people with health conditions to stay and succeed in work.

I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that the programme shows what can be achieved when services meet people where they are, rather than expecting them to navigate complicated systems on their own.

Our teams are based in familiar places, including the MFT hospital estate and local community hubs, so people can get help where they already feel looked after.

So far, more than 1,100 local residents have taken part. Each person is matched with a work and health coach who helps them tackle the challenges that are holding them back. This could mean understanding what workplace adjustments might help, exploring different job options, building confidence, or connecting people with local services that can make day‑to‑day life a bit easier.

For those already in work, we help them manage their health so they can stay in their job; for those out of work, we support them to move into a role that fits their needs and ambitions.

This approach is already making a real difference, and people are starting to notice. WorkWell Manchester recently won the Health Solutions for Work award at the 2025 ERSA Employability Awards: a recognition of how practical, personalised support can change lives.

As the government looks to expand early employment and health support, WorkWell offers a strong foundation and natural stepping stone towards more intensive support in the local community, including IPS models and Connect to Work. It demonstrates that early, joined‑up support works, and that communities benefit when organisations work together.

If you have any questions, we’re always happy to share our experience. If you’d like to learn more about how our WorkWell approach could support people in your area, please do get in touch. 

The Growth Company

The Growth Company is an award-winning social enterprise with a 30-year history of enabling growth, creating jobs, and improving lives. We help people and businesses to develop, grow, and succeed through a range of employment, skills, and business support services. We provide employment, justice, and health services across the North of England and beyond.