DWP set to help people with mental health conditions find work

200,000 people on health and disability benefits are ready to work right now, if only the right job or support were available. 

A new survey from the department for work and pensions (DWP) shows that many people with mental health issues are being let down by the benefits system. 

Mental health and unemployment  

If you’re a young person (16-34) struggling with mental health, you’re not alone. In the last year, the number of young people who can’t work due to mental health problems increased by 26% to 270,000. For all working-age adults (16-64), that number has risen by 22%, reaching 790,000. 

What the survey found: 

• 32% of people who receive health and disability benefits think they can work now or in the future, if the right support is there. 

• 5% (200,000) people are ready to start working immediately with the right help. 

• For many, work is a vital part of self-esteem, happiness and security. 

• Half of people on health and disability benefits are worried about losing their benefits if they try working and it doesn’t work out. 

What’s being done to help?  

The government knows the current system isn’t working and is looking to make changes.  

These changes will be part of a ‘Plan for Change’ to help more people get jobs.  

The goal is to create a welfare system that offers support designed for each person’s needs, making it easier for those with disabilities or health conditions to find work and improve their lives. 

Liz Kendall, work and pensions secretary, said: “Today’s report shows that the broken benefits system is letting down people with mental health conditions who want to work. 

“People claiming health and disability benefits have been classed by the system as “can’t work” and shut out of jobs and have been ignored – when they’ve been crying out for support.” 

Let’s talk about mental health  

The report was published on Time to Talk Day (6 February). Led by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, in partnership with the Co-op, Time to Talk Day is all about breaking the silence around mental health and opening up.  

It’s a chance for us all to talk about how we really feel. It’s about helping people and communities come together to have conversations about mental health.   

At Money Wellness, nearly 64% of our customers face vulnerabilities, often linked to mental health.