The number of patients offered employment support as part of the NHS talking therapies programme last year was up by nearly two thirds (62%) compared to the previous year, according to NHS England.
Almost 70,000 (67,794) people with mental health issues were given employment support through the programme.
There were also 1.8 million referrals to talking therapies, with more than 1.2 million starting treatment.
The programme, which helps those struggling with their mental health, also lunks people with an employment advisor if finding and keeping work is something they wish to receive help with. This advisor can help with CV writing, prepping for interview and setting goals.
NHS national director for mental health, Claire Murdoch, said: ‘The NHS has heard for many years from patients struggling with their mental health that working and having a purpose can have a hugely positive impact.
‘This is why I’m thrilled that NHS staff have helped more than 67,000 mental health patients with employment advice, because for many, having the right job and support is crucial in their mental health journey.’
Health secretary, Wes Streeting said: ‘It is vital that patients can get the support they need, to improve their mental health and help them back to work.
‘This government will transform mental health services, recruiting more than 8,500 mental health professionals, introducing mental health support in every school, and investing in talking therapies for an extra 380,000 patients next year.’
It comes after the government announced £45m of new funding for ICBs to contribute to tackling unemployment and an expansion of talking therapies.
ICBs were told in October to consider health inequalities when designing urgent and emergency mental health care for children and young people, within NHS England guidance.
