UK Program Assists Over 65K Sick, Disabled to Seek Work
Why this is here: The program helped over 65,000 people, exceeding its initial target set for March 2025, and shows a measurable increase in employment rates two years after participation compared to those without support.
More than 65,000 sick and disabled people received free, tailored employment support through a government program. The initiative deployed 1,000 Pathways to Work Advisers starting in March of last year. These advisers connect individuals with skills training, including IT and HGV qualifications.
The program targets people receiving sickness benefits without work requirements. Approximately 2.7 million Universal Credit claimants are considered Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA). Roughly 1.5 million of these individuals have mental or behavioral disorders.
Analysis indicates participants supported by work coaches were more likely to be employed after two years. One participant, Callum, used the program to launch an art business after struggling with mental health challenges. The program is part of a wider £3.5 billion employment support package.