
A new programme dedicated to providing employment support for people with disabilities is seeing positive outcomes across Greater Manchester.
Working Well: Individual Placement and Support in Primary Care (WW:IPSPC) aims to help Greater Manchester residents with physical or mental health disabilities into sustained employment – or provide them with support to stay in or return to their current job. The scheme, commissioned by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) is being delivered by the Growth Company with funding from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Since the phased launch began in September 2023, over 600 people have registered to receive tailored employment support, of which, 188 people have successfully gained a new job or have been helped to stay in their current employment.
WW:IPSPC follows the “place, train, and maintain” model. This model focuses on providing individual participants with flexible one-to-one support throughout their journey. This support includes guidance on how to write a CV, apply for jobs, receive career advice, and get follow-up assistance once they have secured or resumed paid work.
Additionally, the initiative emphasizes direct and ongoing engagement with employers. This engagement aims to help individuals thrive in their workplace by making necessary adjustments and supporting them in managing their health conditions within the workplace.
Working alongside local referral organisations including GPs and councils, WW:IPSPC helps individuals overcome barriers to sustained employment. The programme continues to grow and has already seen positive outcomes for both employers and participants.
Alex Howley, Operations Director at the Growth Company said:
“In a short space of time, WW:IPSPC has already had a positive impact on the lives of so many people facing barriers to employment.
“Programmes such as this are a vital resource for people who have every desire to work but are often left with no choice other than unemployment or long-term sickness, due to a lack of adequate support. Through our tailored, person-centred approach, we have seen people return to work, find new employment, and have engaged with employers to support employees with disabilities and help them thrive in the workplace.
“WW:IPSPC helps people realise their potential and build on their skills while supporting their health and wellbeing. We look forward to engaging with many more participants and employers as it continues to go from strength to strength.”
WW:IPSPC will run until March 2025 and the team encourages both individuals seeking support and referral organisations to get in touch.